Question

Keisha performs an experiment with two randomly assigned groups of school children. The first group is allowed 15 minutes of recess play before a math test, while the second group watches a video before the test. When she analyzes the test scores, she finds that there is a statistically significant difference between the groups, with the recess group scoring higher on average. Which conclusions can be drawn from this result?

A. Correlation
B. Causation
C. Experimental Design
D. Control Group

Answer 1

Option (D), The experiment demonstrates a causation between recess play and higher math test scores. However, lurking variables need to be considered in the experimental design to affirm the results.

Step-by-step explanation:

Keisha's experiment is an example of a controlled experiment, where one group is given a variable to test its effect, in this case, recess play, while the other group does not receive this variable and instead watches a video. Because the experiment has a statistically significant difference in test scores, with the recess group scoring higher on average, the conclusion drawn can be one of causation within the context of this experiment.

However, it's essential to consider lurking variables, such as prior math experience, level of encouragement in different fields, and even the psychological state of the children. These factors could influence the test scores and might not have been controlled for in the experiment.

Still, within the constraints of this experiment, we can conclude that the recess play had an effect on the test scores as opposed to the control group that watched a video. In order to affirm these results more robustly, the experiment would need to control for these potential lurking variables and ensure that the experimental design is sound, with a proper control group and attention to any ethical constraints.