T-Test Independent Samples-- Key

1. A hiring manager wants to know if there is a difference between graduates with

different majors on a job selection test. If the difference between the sample
means is not statistically significant, the hiring manager can disregard an
applicant’s major when making a decision. Test the difference for statistical
significance using p () = .05.

Write the problem as a null (H ) hypothesis. O

There is no statistically significant difference between the scores received by

applicants from Major A and B in taking the same job selection test.

H O: X A = X B H A: X A = X B

Major A Major B
X A = 58 X B = 51
sA = 3.08 sB = 3.16
nA = 5 nB = 5

Using the following formula, calculate the value for t. Show all you work. You do not
need to submit your calculations if you are submitting in an online drop box. Save your
calculations so that you may compare your work to the solution.

X A −X B
t=

√[ ( n A −1 ) s A 2 + ( n B −1 ) s B 2
n A +n B −2 ]( 1
+
1
n A nB )
 X A −X B
t=

√[ ( n A−1 ) s A 2 + ( n B −1 ) s B 2
n A +n B −2 ]( 1
+
1
n A nB )
58−51
t=

√[ 5+5−2
+]( )
( 5−1 ) 9 . 5+ ( 5−1 ) 10 1 1
5 5

7
t=
√ [ 9. 75 ] (. 2+. 2 )
7
t=
1. 97

t=3 .55

Calculated t = _____3.55________
Tabled value for t = ___2.306_________
df =__8_______nA + nB – 2= df
Use Distribution of t Table A.4 located in Resources.

Decision about H : O

3.55 > 2.2.306 Therefore, the null hypothesis is rejected.

We accept the alternative hypothesis. Major A and Major B applicants are different as
measured by a job selection test.

Decision about hiring decisions:

Major A applicants should be favored in hiring decisions. (Hint: Go back to the given
data. Which major has a higher mean?)