If the sample size of a study is small and a high value of eta squared is observed,but there is no statistically significant effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable,we may conclude that ______.
A)a mistake has been made since you can't get a strong relationship when the t is nonsignificant
B)unless a larger sample is used we can't be certain about the effects of the independent variable
C)although the sample is small,the strong relationship indicates there is an effect due to the independent variable
D)the nonsignificant finding should be taken as conclusive evidence of no effect of the independent variable

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A high value of eta squared indicates a strong relationship between the independent and dependent variables. However, if there is no statistically significant effect of the independent variable on the dependent variable, we cannot be certain about the effects of the independent variable as a larger sample size may be needed to obtain significant results. Therefore, option B is the most appropriate as it acknowledges the need for a larger sample size to confirm or refute the results. Option A is incorrect as a strong relationship can still be observed even when the t-test is nonsignificant. Option C is incorrect as a strong relationship does not necessarily indicate that there is an effect due to the independent variable. Option D is incorrect as it assumes that the nonsignificant finding is conclusive evidence, whereas, in reality, it could be due to lack of power caused by the small sample size.

If the Sample Size of a Study Is Small and a High