2.7 Optional: Random allocation

For a small pilot study, Sam allocated 12 students (6 males and 6 females) to one of two groups.

In the Report associated with the study, Sam stated that the 12 students were

…randomly allocated to one of two groups (Group A or Group B),

and different interventions were applied to each group.

A reviewer, however, noted that all the subjects in Group A were male, and all the subjects in Group B were female.

1. Would this be a problem? Why?

   Feel free to comment in the Discussion below.

2. Do you agree with Sam, that the subjects really were allocated to the groups at random? Explain your answer.

   Again, feel free to comment in the Discussion below.

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