Use the following data to answer the next five exercises: A pair of studies was performed to measure the effectiveness of a new software program designed to help stroke patients regain their problem-solving skills. Patients were asked to use the software program twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening. The studies observed 200stroke patients recovering over a period of several weeks. The first study collected the data in Table 1.31. The second study collected the data in Table 1.32.

The company takes the two studies as proof that their software causes mental improvement in stroke patients. Is this a fair statement?

Short Answer

Expert verified

The company's claim that the two studies prove that their software improves mental health in stroke patients is unfair.

Step by step solution

01

Given information

A pair of studies were conducted to assess the efficacy of a new software program designed to assist stroke patients in regaining problem-solving skills. The software program was to be used twice a day, once in the morning and once in the evening, by the patients. The studies followed the recovery of 200stroke patients over a period of several weeks. The data in Table 1.31 were gathered in the first study. Table 1.32 contains the results of the second study.

02

Explanation of Solution

The numbers in both studies are different. They are not the same and do not show the same effect as the software. As a result, considering both studies and claiming that they both contribute to the conclusion that the software is effective is incorrect. Only the first study strongly suggests that the software works. The second study lacks a statistically significant set of observations to draw the same conclusion. As a result, both studies do not serve as proof of the software's effectiveness, and the statement is not accurate.

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