Statistical procedures for research on L2 reading comprehension: An examination of ANOVA and Regression Models

Abstract

Through a discussion of research that examines a plethora of variables involved in second language (L2) reading comprehension, the present study attempts to examine and analyze the statistical procedures utilized in studies of this nature. A review of recent research from the past five and a half years from four leading scientific journals of reading is offered. Research questions that motivate the selection of statistical procedures are examined for each study. Results show that Analysis of Variance (ANOVA) is utilized more than Regression Models (RM) primarily because researchers are asking questions about the variation between and within groups of variables and are not predicting performance on dependent variables via independent variables. The strong resemblances and differences between ANOVA and RMs are discussed in light of the review of research, and through a detailed critique of Brantmeier's (2003) study with different research questions and additional analysis of data, the relationship between statistical procedures is further exemplified. Explanation for the use of statistical procedures in light of recent theoretical models (Bernhardt, 2003) is included.