Park University Unit 5 Statistics for Social Science Type Errors Discussion

Introduction

In this chapter we look at the concept of p-values and significance. The dictionary definition of significance is something of great importance. In this unit we will learn that the term significance means something very different in statistics. Also, what is this p-value, and doesn’t that mean the same thing or, at least something like significance? Finally, we will learn the structure underlying all hypotheses tests.

Directions

Discussion questions are designed to take you beyond the textbook and PowerPoints and engage you in critical thinking about the material. You are required to make a substantive post, however, there are no arbitrary page limits. Most of these questions cannot be answered in a single paragraph and likely require you to do research outside of class to generate the best response.

Each discussion requires a minimum of two substantive peer review posts. All posts must utilize and cite material from the unit’s course information, readings, and videos. You may also use outside resources to support your answer.

What are substantive postings? Substantive postings include:

• Responding to discussion questions as well as discourse between students related to subject matter within the course. This includes posting responses to others’ answers within a Discussion Area. A response may express agreement with or challenge to the point of view expressed, supported by references (citations) to the text or other course materials.
• Contributing to the discussion based upon course content, theory, personal experiences, or external research, not simply personal opinions.

Discussion Question

As should be clear at this point in the course, there are a number of sources of error that can influence statistical testing. What types of error can occur when making decisions based on test of hypotheses? Be specific. What does it mean if a researcher sets his/her alpha at say .01, and rejects the null hypothesis? How does this differ from setting the alpha at .05 and rejecting the null? How does the selected p-value influence the likelihood finding a significant difference? What is meant (and not meant) when a researcher says a finding is “statistically significant”?

Due Dates

• First Substantive Post due by 11:59 p.m., Thursday, CT.
• 2 Response Substantive Posts due by 11:59 p.m., Sunday, CT.