TUTORIAL 7: for Semester 2 Week 8

Designing studies

 

The following hypothesis is to be tested experimentally:

 

“Two interfaces are provided to a second language learning tutor: interface X and interface Y. People using interface X complete a set of exercises correctly in less time than those using interface Y.”

 

The two alternative designs given below are proposed for testing this hypothesis.

 

Design 1: Twenty undergraduate students are selected at random in the students union. They are pre-tested on a set of exercises, using pen and paper, and divided into two matched groups based on their performance. One group uses interface X and then interface Y. The other group uses interface Y and then X. The number of errors made in completing a set of exercises (similar to the pre-test task), using each interface, is recorded and compared.

 

Design 2: Twenty undergraduate AI students are recruited. All the students use interface X and interface Y. Half use first X then Y, and the other half use first Y then X. Two set of exercises are defined, and assigned randomly for use with each interface (such that each used completes both sets). Time taken to complete the exercises using each interface is recorded and compared.

 

 

1. Compare the two designs, stating the strengths and limitations of each in relation to the hypothesis to be tested.

 

2. Propose a new design that incorporates the best features of each.

 


 
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