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Do Effect-Size Measures Measure Up?: A Brief Assessment, Anthony J. Onwuegbuzie, Joel R. Levin, Nancy L. Leech

Nancy Leech

Because of criticisms leveled at statistical hypothesis testing, some researchers have argued that measures of effect size should replace the significance-testing practice. We contend that although effect-size measures have logical appeal, they are also associated with a number of limitations that may result in problematic interpretations of them in research on children and adults with learning disabilities (LD). The purpose of the present paper is to provide a framework for reporting and interpreting empirical research findings in LD research. Specifically, we recommend that: (1) researchers apply criteria of both statistical significance and substantive significance to help consumers of research assess …