Statistics: Statistical Significance and Null Hypothesis

1. Feb 16, 2006

jlo2006

Heres the problem:

When asked to explain the meaning of "statistically significant at the 0.05 level," a student says, "This means there is only probability 0.05 that the null hypothesis is true." Is this an essentially correct explanation of statistical significance? Explain.

2. Feb 17, 2006

EnumaElish

Can you perhaps mention some of your thoughts as to what the answer might be?

If you are finding it difficult to answer that, try to answer this: what is the definition of stat. significance?

Last edited: Feb 17, 2006
3. Feb 17, 2006

0rthodontist

He already posted the same question in the statistics forum.

4. Feb 17, 2006

EnumaElish

How do you know it's a he? Jay-Lo? Hello?

5. Feb 17, 2006

0rthodontist

Ahh... of course I assumed he meant his name to be pronounced with a soft j, like "halo," and all Halo aficionados are male.

No, I'm kidding, I didn't notice the name.

6. Feb 17, 2006

EnumaElish

Regardless of gender, jlo2006 should not have cross-posted.