From John Farquhar
Your report on research from Indiana State University on the sleeping habits of ducks
(This Week, 6 February, p 8) immediately reminded of an article you
published almost exactly 16 years ago, entitled “A safer life for the peeking
duck” (New Scientist, 24 February 1983, p 514).
I used that article frequently over the years as a “real” example of research
design, simple statistical analysis and clear presentation of results in the
field of behavioural research. Students quickly grasped the ideas of hypothesis
framing and testing—it was a very well-written article.
I wonder if the American researchers were aware of this earlier study?
Ampleforth, North Yorkshire
