ABSTRACT
Simple applications of randomization tests can be made on the basis of a general understanding of the role of random assignment. However, to take full advantage of the versatility of randomization tests the experimenter requires a more extensive discussion of some aspects of random assignment (randomization) than is provided in standard statistics books. The employment of randomization tests instead of conventional parametric tests per - mits the use of a variety of methods of random assignment that otherwise would be inappropriate. The utilization of randomization tests thus helps “put the horse before the cart”: instead of the experimenter ’s efforts being expended on designing an experiment to fit the requirements of a statistical test, the experimenter incorporates randomization in the manner desir ed and can r est assured that a randomization test can be devised to fit the design employed.
