T-test - What is a t-test?

t-tests are used to determine whether two samples are different. For example, two sixth grade classes (random samples) took the same reading pre and post-tests. The T-Test will help us analyze whether the two means are different. This means we are comparing the mean of fifth-grade class #1 to fifth grade class #2 to see how they vary. This will help to figure out if students are increasing performance overall or not. Also, if there is significant difference, the t-test will help us figure out if we need to investigate further to see why there is significant differences in performance (intervention, supplemental materials, delivery method of instruction, etc).

contributed by Tania Nicole Sutherland