Statistics and Research Methods

This set of flashcards covers key terminology and concepts related to statistics and research methods, particularly focusing on population vs. sample populations, survey design, sampling methods, and experimental validity.

Population

A group of subjects, variables, concepts, or phenomena being studied.

Sample Population

A smaller group taken from a larger population for the purpose of research.

Census

An official count or survey of a population, typically recording various details of individuals.

Sampling Error

The degree to which a sample differs from the actual population.

Parameters

Numeric characteristics of a population.

Statistics

Numeric characteristics of samples.

Random Sampling

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

Probability Sampling

A method of sampling where the quantity and selection process is known and can be calculated.

Descriptive Surveys

Surveys that document current conditions or attitudes at that moment.

Analytical Surveys

Surveys that explain why situations exist focusing on two or more variables.

Open-ended Questions

Questions that allow respondents to generate their own answers.

Close-ended Questions

Questions that require respondents to select an answer from a provided list.

Pilot Study

A small-scale study conducted to explore the core idea before launching the main study.

Confounding Variables

Variables that can affect the outcome of an experiment if not controlled.

Internal Validity

The degree to which an experiment demonstrates a true cause-and-effect relationship.

External Validity

The degree to which experimental results can be generalized to other contexts.

Manipulation Check

A procedure to ensure that a manipulation in an experiment has the desired effect.

Content Analysis

A method to describe and systematically analyze messages.

Survey Bias

Systematic errors in the survey process that can lead to inaccurate results.

Ethical Considerations

Principles ensuring research integrity, including informed consent.

Random Assignment

The process of randomly assigning subjects to different groups to eliminate bias.