Short Answer

Imagine a student who typically averages a score of 150150 on weekly testing metrics suddenly achieves an extreme score of 220220. Applying the concept of regression to the mean, what prediction would you make about the student's next score, and why?

Question: Imagine a student who typically averages a score of 150150 on weekly testing metrics suddenly achieves an extreme score of 220220. Applying the concept of regression to the mean, what prediction would you make about the student's next score, and why?

Sample answer: Applying regression to the mean, the student's next score is predicted to be significantly lower and closer to their long-term average of 150150. This is because the score of 220220 represents an extreme performance, which statistical probability dictates will be followed by a more typical, average result rather than indicating a permanent shift in ability.

Key points:

  • Predict that the student's next score will be significantly lower, moving back toward 150150.
  • Apply the concept of regression to the mean to justify the predicted decrease.
  • Explain that the initial high score of 220220 was a natural fluctuation rather than a permanent improvement.

Feedback: The response should correctly predict that the student's next score will be significantly lower (regressing toward 150150) and explain that extreme performances are statistically followed by more typical, average outcomes rather than representing a permanent change.

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Updated 2026-05-27

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Research Methods in Psychology - 4th American Edition @ KPU

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