A professor would use a paired-samples t-test to compare the average midterm scores between two sections of a statistics course - one that meets three times a week for an hour, and one that meets once a week for three hours. The professor chose this example because comparing exam scores between sections could reveal differences in teaching strategy or methods between the sections. If differences were found, the professor would reevaluate their teaching for the lower performing section to help improve student performance and fulfill their job duties of effective instruction.

1. Give an example of a situation related to your current job (or the job you would like to have after
graduation) in which you would use a paired-samples t-test. Why did you choose this example?
How would this information help you to perform your job duties?
Solution
Let's say I'm new professor teaching a college statistics course that is offered in
two sections: Section 1 meets early afternoons for an hour, 3 times per week. Section 2 meets
only on Thursday evenings, but for three hours. I would use the independent samples t-test to
check for significant differences between average midterm scores between the two class sections.
If it was shown that differences indeed existed between the exam scores, I would likely
reevaluate teaching strategy and methods for the class section that performed worse.