Sample Size Determination

The Discussion Board (DB) is part of the core of online learning. Classroom discussion in an online environment requires the active participation of students and the instructor to create robust interaction and dialogue. Every student is expected to create an original response to the open-ended DB question as well as engage in dialogue by responding to posts created by others throughout the week. At the end of each unit, DB participation will be assessed based on both level of engagement and the quality of the contribution to the discussion.

At a minimum, each student will be expected to post an original and thoughtful response to the DB question and contribute to the weekly dialogue by responding to at least two other posts from students. The first contribution must be posted before midnight (Central Time) on Wednesday of each week. Two additional responses are required after Wednesday of each week. Students are highly encouraged to engage on the Discussion Board early and often, as that is the primary way the university tracks class attendance and participation.

The purpose of the Discussion Board is to allow students to learn through sharing ideas and experiences as they relate to course content and the DB question. Because it is not possible to engage in two-way dialogue after a conversation has ended, no posts to the DB will be accepted after the end of each unit.

SAMPLE SIZE DETERMINATION

Determining sample-size is important step when planning a statistical study. It is also quite a difficult task since many variables must be considered.

MAIN DISCUSSION POST: Due by Sunday
In Yahoo! use the search term “Sample Size Determination.” Select a University or Government webpage that discusses the topic. Do not use Wikipedia, eHow or about.com or other resource that is not written or published by a University or the US Government.

• Paragraph 1: In simple terms explain what researchers must go through to select the right sample size for a study. (Be sure to cite and reference the website)

In Yahoo! use the search term “Sample Size Calculator.” Select two calculators you like best.

• Paragraph 2: Explain how the calculators work. Test the two calculators using a population, confidence level and confidence interval you select. Discuss the results. (Be sure to cite and reference the website)

Please do not use quotes or copy definitions. You will not receive credit for understanding the materials if you use the words of others. Keep in mind that since you did research and you have citations in the body of the post, you must also place a reference list at the end containing the textbook and the articles cited.

Do not use file attachments. It is NOT necessary to upload this assignment to the Submit Files area. Your 2 paragraph main post must be submitted to the Discussion Thread by Sunday.

INTERACTIVE RESPONSES: Due by Sunday
Interactive Reply 1:
Select one student’s post regarding sample size determination. Asses if it is well-explained. Are there questions left unanswered for you?

Interactive Reply 2:
Read through other interactive replies and select one to critique that did not use the same calculators as you. Try out one of the calculators. Was it easier to use than yours? Discuss the benefits of using a calculator like this vs. doing the calculations yourself.

Each post should be one paragraph in length (75 words) and must be substantive in nature

Use of unoriginal text and excessive quotes indicates a lack of comprehension and shows that you may not have mastered the concepts.