When to Use t-Test, ANOVA, ANCOVA, MANOVA, and MANCOVA: A Step-by-Step Guide for Novice Educational Researchers

Emmanuel Nestory Kayuni

doi:10.70148/rise.v3i6.6

Pengarang

Emmanuel Nestory Kayuni Mwalimu Julius Nyerere University of Agriculture and Technology Author

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.70148/rise.v3i6.6

Kata kunci:

ANOVA, ANCOVA, MANOVA, MANCOVA, Novice Educational Researchers, t-test

Abstrak

Selecting an appropriate statistical test remains a challenge for novice educational researchers, particularly when distinguishing among parametric procedures with different requirements and analytical purposes. This paper provides a practical guide for selecting the t-test, ANOVA, ANCOVA, MANOVA, and MANCOVA in quantitative educational research. The guide begins with hypothesis testing and variable classification, followed by normality assessment and consideration of data transformation before selecting the appropriate statistical procedure. Each test is explained according to its purpose, assumptions, research question, types, decision criteria, and interpretation. The paper emphasizes the necessity of choosing statistical tests based on the research hypothesis structure, number of groups, dependent variables, and covariates, rather than by familiarity with statistical software. The guide is designed to assist novice education researchers to make sound statistical choices and improve the validity and interpretability of their quantitative research results.

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