COMPUTER INTERPRETATION FOR THE MEANS COMPARISON IN SOCIAL SCIENCES RESEARCH

Abstract

Means comparison procedures such as t-test and analysis of variance are popular statistical procedures which are used in social sciences research. The use of statistics for comparison of means is based on the research objectives and the number of sample groups with the requirement that the variables must be of interval scale or ratio scale. The interpretation principles of data analysis results for means comparison are (1) interpret in accordance with the research objectives, (2) use language that is easy to read and understand, (3) interpret based on numerical results, and (4) translate only the key findings. Thus, the researcher should have knowledge and understanding of the assumption for the use of statistics and data interpretation correctly. Also, interpretation of computer printouts for the means comparison in research is very important because it will enable the research findings to be accurate and reliable.