Null hypothesis discussion assignment
Hypothesis Testing is often compared to a criminal trial, where we hear the phrase “innocent until proven guilty”. The assumption of innocence can be thought of as the null hypothesis. Remember that in hypothesis testing, we assume the null hypothesis is true unless we have sufficient evidence that it is not. Likewise, in a trial, we assume the defendant is innocent unless we have sufficient evidence that he or she is not. So here are some points for discussion:
1. What would a type I error be using the example of a criminal trial?
2. What would a type II error be using the example of a criminal trial?
3. Which type of error would be worse to make?
4. If we reject the null hypothesis, what conclusion can be reached in terms of the trial?
5. If we fail to reject the null hypothesis, what conclusion can be reached in terms of the trial?