Problem-Solving and Data AnalysisMediumFlaw in a comparison of teaching methods
Problem-Solving and Data Analysis practice question
A school tested two teaching methods by using method A with its strongest mathematics students and method B with the rest. Students taught by method A scored higher, and the school concluded that method A is more effective. Which of the following best describes the flaw in this conclusion?
- A. The students were not assigned to the methods at random, so the higher scores may reflect the students rather than the method.Correct
- B. The school should have used more than two methods.
- C. Test scores are not a valid measure of learning.
- D. Method B was used with too many students.
Answer: A. The students were not assigned to the methods at random, so the higher scores may reflect the students rather than the method.
Stronger students in group A confound the comparison.
Why the other answers are wrong
- B. The school should have used more than two methods.
- Two methods can be compared fairly if groups are assigned at random.
- C. Test scores are not a valid measure of learning.
- Scores are the outcome being compared; the flaw is in assignment.
- D. Method B was used with too many students.
- Group size is not the issue.
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