A Coach Uses a New Technique in Training Middle Distance

Essay

A coach uses a new technique in training middle distance runners. The times, in seconds, for 8 different athletes to run 800 meters before and after this training are shown below. $$\begin{array} { r | c c c c c c c c } \text { Athlete } & \mathbf { A } & \mathbf { B } & \mathbf { C } & \mathbf { D } & \mathbf { E } & \mathbf { F } & \mathbf { G } & \mathbf { H } \\\hline \text { Before } & 115.2 & 114 & 116.4 & 119.8 & 110.9 & 112.4 & 111.5 & 117.3 \\\hline \text { After } & 112.9 & 112.7 & 114 & 120.6 & 109.1 & 109.1 & 107.9 & 113.4\end{array}$$ Does the conclusion that the technique is effective appear to be supported with statistical significance? Does the conclusion that the technique is effective appear to have practical significance?