Sample Size Calculations for Precise Interval Estimation of the Eta-Squared Effect Size

Abstract

Analysis of variance is one of the most frequently used statistical analyses in the behavioral, educational, and social sciences, and special attention has been paid to the selection and use of an appropriate effect size measure of association in analysis of variance. This article presents the sample size procedures for precise interval estimation of eta-squared and partial eta-squared in fixed-effects analysis of variance designs. The desired precision of a confidence interval is assessed with respect to (a) the control of expected width and (b) the tolerance probability of interval width within a designated value. In addition, sample size calculations for standardized contrasts of treatment effects and corresponding partial strength of association effect sizes are also considered.