This activity presents the user with an online tool for an ANOVA analysis. The user can type in their own data for X number of groups and K number of observations per group. In addition to the online tool, there is an intro page which gives an example when ANOVA might be used, provides some of the computation behind the ANOVA method, and ties the topic back to (assumed) previously covered topics (the t-test).
Type of Material:
Drill and practice, applet
Recommended Uses:
This seems like a tool that could be used outside of class for review or as part of a homework assignment.
Technical Requirements:
Java-enabled Internet browser
Identify Major Learning Goals:
-understand the purpose for using ANOVA
-understand some of the ANOVA computation and output
-learn to input data
Target Student Population:
Introductory or Intermediate Statistics students or anyone needing to use ANOVA who might not have statistical software knowledge or tools to perform the analysis
Prerequisite Knowledge or Skills:
An understanding of inferential statistics (t-tests and confidence intervals); some understanding of how to interpret computer output might be helpful as well
Content Quality
Rating:
Strengths:
The problem is set up nicely and an interesting example is used. Students can quickly get results if they use the tool appropriately.
Concerns:
The technical jargon is hard to read (even for someone used to statistical jargon). I had to reread sentences several times in order to try to understand what they were trying to say. The equations could be set up better and the motivation for using an F test also could be set up better. Graphics would be nice to set up the problem as well. Also, the last section needs to be expanded, maybe with an example. Another concern is that the explanation of ANOVA might not be enough for those just learning about it for the first time.
Potential Effectiveness as a Teaching Tool
Rating:
Strengths:
It's nice here that there is an attempt to make connections to previously learned material (such as t-tests) and that students can use their own data.
Concerns:
The language makes it hard to read and comprehend.
I would guess students would get confused on what they are reading and then skip this page and go straight to analyzing the data. If that’s the case, it might be better to make the presentation of information shorter and more concise. The format of the page needs to be modified to be more visually pleasing (i.e., breaking up the sections more, emphasizing certain things with font changes). Graphics might also help here.
A question that should be asked is: what is the purpose of the material presented? What is it that you want students to get out of the content page?
Ease of Use for Both Students and Faculty
Rating:
Strengths:
It is easy for students to type in their own data, and the output is easy to understand.
Concerns:
I kept getting errors when I tried to enter in a small sample size per group (i.e. 1 or 2). It might be good to tell students the minimum sample size needed to enter.
Creative Commons:
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