AP Statistics - Unit 3 - Collecting Data - Types of bias

Bias

When you are systematically underestimating or overestimating the value you are trying to estimate.

Voluntary response bias

Based on individuals who choose to participate.

Convenience surveys

Based on choosing individuals who are easy to reach.

Undercoverage bias

Happens when there is inadequate representation, and thus some groups in the population are left out of the process of choosing the sample.

Response bias

Occurs when the question itself can lead to misleading results because people don’t want to be perceived as having unpopular or unsavory views or don’t want to admit to have committed crimes.

Nonresponse bias

Low response rates; occurs when individuals chosen for the sample can’ be contacted or refuse to participate.

Quota sampling bias

interviewers are given free choice in picking people in attempt to pick representatively with no randomization.

Question wording bias

Occur when nonneutral or poorly worded questions lead to very unrepresentative responses or even when the order in which questions are asked makes a difference.