Essay

Based on the study by Oakes (1986), describe the specific misconception about statistical significance that was held by professional researchers, and explain what these findings suggest about the understanding of pp-values within the scientific community.

Question: Based on the study by Oakes (1986), describe the specific misconception about statistical significance that was held by professional researchers, and explain what these findings suggest about the understanding of pp-values within the scientific community.

Sample answer: In the study by Oakes (1986), 60%60\% of professional researchers incorrectly believed that a pp-value of 0.010.01 in an independent-samples tt-test with 2020 participants in each sample indicated a 99%99\% probability that the results would replicate. This incorrect belief demonstrates a widespread misunderstanding of statistical significance, suggesting that even experienced and professional psychological researchers can struggle with the correct interpretation of pp-values.

Key points:

  • In Oakes (1986), 60%60\% of professional researchers made a statistical interpretation error.
  • The error was believing that a pp-value of 0.010.01 in an independent-samples tt-test with 2020 participants per group meant a 99%99\% chance of replication.
  • The findings reveal a widespread misunderstanding of statistical significance even among experienced researchers.

Rubric: To receive full credit, the response must identify that 60%60\% of professional researchers incorrectly believed that a pp-value of 0.010.01 with 2020 participants in each sample meant a 99%99\% probability of replication. The response must also state that this finding demonstrates a widespread misunderstanding of statistical significance among experienced psychological researchers.

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Updated 2026-05-27

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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU

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