Essay

Identify and describe the two primary ways a researcher can increase the statistical power of a research design when it is found to be inadequate. Additionally, state which of these options is the most common and practical strategy.

Question: Identify and describe the two primary ways a researcher can increase the statistical power of a research design when it is found to be inadequate. Additionally, state which of these options is the most common and practical strategy.

Sample answer: Researchers can increase statistical power in two primary ways: by increasing the sample size or by strengthening the relationship between variables. Strengthening the relationship can be achieved by using a stronger experimental manipulation or by carefully controlling extraneous variables to reduce data noise, such as employing a within-subjects design instead of a between-subjects design. The most common and practical strategy to boost power is simply to increase the sample size.

Key points:

  • Increase the sample size to boost power.
  • Strengthen the relationship between variables.
  • Use a stronger experimental manipulation.
  • Control extraneous variables to reduce noise in the data (e.g., using a within-subjects design).
  • State that increasing the sample size is the most common and practical strategy.

Rubric: To earn full credit, the answer must recall both primary ways to increase power (increasing sample size and strengthening the relationship), mention methods to strengthen the relationship (stronger manipulation or controlling extraneous variables like using a within-subjects design), and state that increasing the sample size is the most common and practical strategy.

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Updated 2026-05-27

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KPU

Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU

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