Stating Hypotheses
One common use of statistics is the testing of scientific hypotheses. First, the investigator forms a
research hypothesis
that states an expectation to be tested. Then the investigator derives a
statement that is the opposite of the research hypothesis. This statement is called the
null
hypothesis
(in notation:
H
0
). It is the null hypothesis that is actually tested, not the research
hypothesis. If the null hypothesis can be rejected, that is taken as evidence in favor of the research
hypothesis (also called the
alternative hypothesis,
H
a
in notation). Because individual tests are
rarely conclusive, it is usually not said that the research hypothesis has been “proved,” only that it
has been supported.
An example of a research hypothesis comparing two groups might be the following:
Fourth-graders in Elmwood School perform differently in math than fourth-graders in Lancaster
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- Fall '08
- Mendez
- Null hypothesis, investigator, research hypothesis, Lancaster, Elmwood School
-
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