Using SPSS to Understand Research and Data Analysis.

9.2 Running the t-test

Open your ezdata.sav file in the Data Editor. Select Analyze, Compare Means, Independent-Samples T Test... from the menu (Figure 9.1).

The Independent-Samples T Test dialog window will appear (Figure 9.2). In the left pane select our dependent variable, Leader Performance 1 (perform1), and move it to the Test Variable(s): pane on the right by clicking the arrow button between the panes. To choose the independent variable, Employee Gender (gender), select it in the left pane and move it to the Grouping Variable: pane.

Now, we need to define the two groups to be compared. To do this, click the Define Groups... button below the dialog window. The Define Groups dialog window will appear (Figure 9.3).

The two groups we want to compare are males and females. Females were given a code of 1, so type 1 in the Group 1: box. Males were given a code of 2, so type 2 in the Group 2: dialogue box. Next, click the Continue button. This will take you back to the Independent Samples T Test window. To run the t-test simply click on the OK button (Figure 9.4).

To view a video of this procedure, click Play below.