Statistical Experiments and Inference

The video tutorial covers inference in experiments, focusing on design diagrams and randomization. It details a magnet experiment for chronic pain, explaining statistical significance and chance variation. Results show significant differences in pain relief between active and inactive magnets. Another experiment compares distraction levels between talking on a cell phone and to a passenger, using simulations to determine statistical significance.

What is the main goal of inference in experiments?

• To increase the sample size

• To apply experimental results to a broader population

• To ensure all participants receive the same treatment

• To eliminate all forms of bias

In the caffeine experiment, how were the volunteers divided?

• Into three groups of equal size

• Into two groups of 10 students each

• Into four groups of five students each

• Into one large group

What was the response variable measured in the caffeine experiment?

• Reaction time

• Pulse rates

• Cognitive ability

• Blood pressure

What was the purpose of randomization in the magnet experiment?

• To increase the number of participants

• To create equivalent groups at the start of the experiment

• To ensure all patients received the same magnet

• To reduce the duration of the experiment

What does statistical significance indicate in an experiment?

• The results are large enough to attribute to the treatment

• The experiment was conducted incorrectly

• The results are due to chance

• The sample size was too small

What was the mean improvement for the active magnet group in the magnet experiment?

• 4.14

• 3.14

• 5.24

• 1.10

In the cell phone vs passenger experiment, what was the main variable being observed?

• The duration of the conversation

• The proportion of subjects distracted enough to stop at a rest stop

• The type of vehicle used

• The number of phone calls made

What does a blue dot at a difference of 0.125 represent in the simulation?

• A random assignment where the passenger group was higher by 12.5%

• A random assignment with no difference

• A random assignment where the cell phone group was higher by 12.5%

• A random assignment with a difference of 37.5%

How is statistical significance determined in the cell phone vs passenger experiment?

• By comparing the mean values

• By increasing the sample size

• By changing the experimental design

• By running a simulation and comparing the results

What boundary is used to consider a result statistically significant?

• 10%

• 20%

• 1%

• 5%