Data Collection and Experimental Design

These flashcards cover key concepts related to data collection and experimental design, providing definitions and explanations of various terms and methods.

Observational Study

A method of data collection where subjects are observed without any attempt to modify their behavior.

Experiment

A method that applies a treatment to a part of a population while observing responses, often using a control group.

Simulation

A method that uses a mathematical or physical model to reproduce conditions of a situation, especially when a real experiment is impractical.

Survey

An investigation of characteristics of a population, typically conducted via interviews, mail, or telephone.

Experimental Design

The arrangement of a study that aims to influence its outcomes through factors such as control, randomization, and replication.

Confounding Variables

Factors that confuse the results of an experiment because they affect the outcome along with the treatment.

Placebo Effect

A phenomenon where subjects experience a favorable result despite not receiving the actual treatment, due to their belief in its efficacy.

Biased Results

Inaccurate outcomes stemming from the way subjects are selected or data is collected.

Randomization

The process of assigning subjects to different treatment groups randomly to reduce bias.

Sampling Techniques

Methods used to select a subset of individuals from a larger population for analysis.

Census

A complete survey of an entire population, often expensive and difficult to conduct.

Sampling

The process of selecting a subset of individuals from a population to draw conclusions about the whole.

Simple Random Sample

A sampling method where every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected.

Systematic Sampling

A sampling technique that involves selecting a starting point and then choosing every kth member of the population.

Cluster Sampling

A technique where the population is divided into clusters, and entire clusters are randomly selected for sampling.

Stratified Sampling

A sampling method that divides the population into subgroups and surveys an equal number from each group.

Convenience Sampling

A sampling method that involves selecting individuals who are easy to reach.