In the educational research literature alpha, the a priori level of significance, and p, the a posteriori probability of obtaining a test statistic of at least a certain value when the null hypothesis is true, are often confused. Explanations for this confusion are offered. Paradoxically, alpha retains a prominent place in textbook discussions of…

Calls attention to limitations and dangers in routine application of multivariate analysis of variance (MANOVA), describes some alternative procedures, and laments the necessarily pervasive character of the statistical problem. (Author)

Presents several multivariate analyses of variance (MANOVA) test procedures. Discusses guidelines for choosing an overall MANOVA test statistic and post hoc tests that determine the dependent variable or variables responsible for any significant effects. Concludes that guidelines based on recent comparisons of the various test statistics be used.…