Effect size is a way of describing the magnitude of the difference between two groups. It gives us a way to use the same measuring stick to show the importance of a difference between one group and another. Research studies use effect size as a metric to show the impact of a variable compared to the control group.
Why Is Effect Size Important?
For example, picture two cypress trees that are 2 feet in diameter. How far apart do you think they would need to be in order for the difference to seem important? Say, three feet?
Now let's think about two giant oak trees, that are 50 feet in diameter. How far apart do you think they would need to be in order for the difference to seem important? A lot more than three feet, right?
So somehow we have to take in the diameter, or the "spread" of the tree (of the data sample) into account. That's what effect size does.
With effect size, we get to use the same scale for any kind of comparison, and judge impact based on fixed numbers. In general, effect sizes are categorized as small when they are <0.2 medium when they are <0.5 or large if they are >0.5.
The Institute of Education Sciences' What Works Clearinghouse designates that an effect size of 0.25 or greater for instructional software is considered to be “substantively important.”
Independent education research firm WestEd recently conducted a study of 3rd to 5th grades in more than 450 schools 16 states. In the 14 states with schools that consistently implemented ST Math, the average effect size for math proficiency was .36, well above what is considered “substantively important."
Additional Resources:
Brian LeTendre was the Director of Impact Advancement at MIND Research Institute. In addition to building thought leadership and brand awareness for MIND, Brian worked cross-functionally internally and externally to amplify MIND's social impact and accelerate our mission. He is an author, podcaster and avid gamer.
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