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Intro to Collecting Data definitions

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  • Population
    Entire group of individuals or items under study, from which data may be collected or conclusions drawn.
  • Sample
    Subset of a population selected for analysis, used to make inferences about the whole group.
  • Parameter
    Numerical value summarizing a characteristic of a population, often unknown and estimated from data.
  • Statistic
    Numerical value summarizing a characteristic of a sample, used to estimate population parameters.
  • Sampling Frame
    List or representation of all elements in a population from which a sample is drawn.
  • Random Sampling
    Method ensuring each member of a population has an equal chance of selection, reducing bias.
  • Bias
    Systematic error in data collection or analysis that distorts results and affects validity.
  • Survey
    Structured method for gathering information from individuals, often using questionnaires.
  • Observational Study
    Research approach where data is collected without intervention, allowing natural behaviors to be recorded.
  • Experiment
    Controlled study involving manipulation of variables to determine causal relationships.
  • Variable
    Characteristic or attribute that can take on different values among individuals or items.
  • Data
    Recorded values or measurements collected for analysis, forming the basis of statistical study.
  • Nonresponse
    Situation where selected individuals do not participate, potentially affecting representativeness.
  • Sampling Error
    Difference between sample results and population values due to random selection.
  • Census
    Collection of data from every member of a population, providing complete information.