A Running Example for Use in a Class on Design of Experiments

ABSTRACT

Classroom discussion is an effective way for students to interact and learn. A class on design of experiments usually covers many related design strategies. It can be useful to have one running example (similar to a case study) that can be used throughout the class to extend earlier topics to later more complex topics. This article presents one such running example that studies plant growth mostly in a greenhouse. The greenhouse experiment begins with a simple t-test and ends with response surface methodology. In between, most of the standard topics covered in a one-semester design of experiments class are discussed.

KEYWORDS:

• classroom experiments