Question 1

Which sampling method is illustrated by the process of randomly selecting the 8th can from each of 6 cases, as shown in the first image?

Accepted Answer

Systematic random sampling

Question 2

In the Calvin and Hobbes comic, Calvin's dad reads a poll about six-year-olds' expectations of fatherhood. What type of bias is most likely present in this poll?

Accepted Answer

Voluntary response bias

Question 3

In the Wizard of Id comic, the pollster asks, 'Would you say he's doing a good job, an outstanding job, or a terrific job?' What type of bias does this question introduce?

Accepted Answer

Response bias

Question 4

Which of the following best describes a simple random sample (SRS)?

Accepted Answer

Every possible group of n individuals has an equal chance of being selected.

Question 5

Suppose a researcher wants to estimate the average height of students at a university. She divides the students by year (freshman, sophomore, junior, senior) and randomly samples 50 students from each group. What sampling method is she using?

Accepted Answer

Stratified random sampling

Question 6

A company wants to survey employee satisfaction. They randomly select 5 departments and survey every employee in those departments. What sampling method is this?

Accepted Answer

Cluster sampling

Question 7

Which of the following is NOT a potential problem with conducting a census?

Accepted Answer

It always provides more accurate results than sampling.

Question 8

What is the main advantage of stratified random sampling over simple random sampling?

Accepted Answer

It reduces sampling variability by ensuring representation from each subgroup.

Question 9

A survey is conducted at a shopping mall by interviewing people who happen to walk by. What type of sampling is this?

Accepted Answer

Convenience sampling

Question 10

Which of the following best describes sampling variability?

Accepted Answer

The differences in the values of sample statistics from sample to sample.

Question 11

If a survey only includes people listed in a phone book, which type of bias is most likely to occur?

Accepted Answer

Undercoverage bias

Question 12

Which of the following is a population parameter, as opposed to a sample statistic?

Accepted Answer

Population mean $$\mu$$

Question 13

A voluntary response sample is likely to be biased because:

Accepted Answer

People with strong opinions are more likely to respond.

Question 14

Which of the following best explains why randomization is important in sampling?

Accepted Answer

It protects against both known and unknown sources of bias.

Question 15

A researcher surveys every 10th person on an alphabetical list of students, starting from a randomly chosen individual. What is this sampling method called?

Accepted Answer

Systematic random sampling

Question 16

Which of the following is a key difference between stratified and cluster sampling?

Accepted Answer

Stratified sampling divides the population into homogeneous groups and samples from each, while cluster sampling divides into groups and samples entire groups.

Question 17

Which of the following is the best way to protect a survey from unanticipated measurement errors?

Accepted Answer

Conduct a pilot survey.

Question 18

A survey asks, 'Do you agree that the new policy, which will save money and improve services, should be implemented?' What type of bias is most likely present?

Accepted Answer

Response bias due to leading question wording

Question 19

Which of the following statements about sample size is correct?

Accepted Answer

A larger sample size generally leads to more precise estimates, regardless of the population size.

Question 20

A survey is sent to 1,000 people, but only 200 respond. What type of bias is most likely to affect the results?

Accepted Answer

Nonresponse bias

Chapter 9: Sample Surveys – Principles and Pitfalls

Study Guide - Practice Questions

Study Guide - Flashcards