Investigating Science Education Intervention Effect Sizes for A Priori Power Analyses

• In Event: Systematic Reviews and Meta-Analyses in Theory and Practice

Abstract

A priori power analyses allow researchers to estimate the number of participants needed to detect any effects of an intervention. However, power analyses are only as valid as the parameter estimates used. Effect sizes vary greatly depending on several study characteristics, including the nature of the intervention, the proximity of the outcome measure to instruction, and age of the participants. Researchers should have an awareness of how an effect size obtained in a pilot study might deviate from what is reasonable to expect in a cluster randomized trial. Our meta-analysis examines the relationship between science education intervention effect sizes and a host of study characteristics, allowing primary researchers to access better estimates of effect sizes for a priori power analyses.

Authors

• Joseph Taylor, Abt Associates Inc.

• Susan M. Kowalski, Biological Sciences Curriculum Study (BSCS)

• Joshua R. Polanin, Development Services Group

• Molly A.M. Stuhlsatz, Biological Sciences Curriculum Study

• Christopher D. Wilson, Biological Sciences Curriculum Study

• Sandra Jo Wilson, Vanderbilt University