HYPOTHESIS TESTING Meaning and
Definition
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Hypothesis testing is a statistical method used to make inferences and draw conclusions about a population based on a sample of data. It is a framework that allows researchers to evaluate and test theories or propositions concerning a population characteristic or relationship between variables.
In hypothesis testing, a hypothesis is formulated which includes the null hypothesis (H0) and the alternative hypothesis (Ha). The null hypothesis represents the default assumption or claim that there is no significant difference or relationship in the population, while the alternative hypothesis suggests otherwise. The goal of hypothesis testing is to gather evidence from the sample to support or reject the null hypothesis, providing insights into the population.
The process of hypothesis testing involves several steps. First, a sample is collected from the population of interest. Then, a statistical test is chosen based on the nature of the data and the research question. This test generates a test statistic that compares the observed data with what would be expected under the null hypothesis. The test statistic is then compared to a critical value or p-value, which determines whether there is enough evidence to reject the null hypothesis in favor of the alternative hypothesis.
Hypothesis testing plays a crucial role in scientific research, as it allows researchers to draw valid conclusions about the population based on limited sample data. It provides a framework to systematically evaluate theories and make informed decisions, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in various fields.
Etymology of HYPOTHESIS TESTING
The word "hypothesis" comes from the Greek word "hupóthesis", which means "foundation" or "supposition". In scientific research, a hypothesis refers to a proposed explanation or theory that can be tested and investigated through observation and experimentation.
The term "testing" is derived from the Old French word "test" or "teste", which means "a small vessel used for melting or testing metals". Over time, the word "test" has acquired broader meanings and is now used to refer to the process of evaluating or examining something to determine its qualities or performance.
Therefore, "hypothesis testing" refers to the process of empirically examining or evaluating a proposed explanation or theory, also known as a hypothesis, to determine its validity or truthfulness based on observed evidence or data.
