Statistics Vocabulary

Simple Random

Assign a numerical label to all individuals then randomly pick numbers

Systematic

Randomly select a beginning number then select every nth person after that

Cluster

Divide population into groups then randomly select groups and interview everyone in that group

Stratified

Divide population into groups then randomly select some members from each group

Convenience

Select individuals that are easy to reach

Census

the process of measuring every member of a population

Statistic

numerical value based on a sample of …

Parameter

numerical value of all …

Question order

when 2 questions are asked in an order such that the first question suggests an answer to the second

Preface

some questions start with statements that can bias the result of the question that follows

2 Questions in 1

asking 2 questions at once; survey respondents may agree with one part and disagree with another part, but they are only allowed to give one answer

Biased wording

Using pleasant/unpleasant wording to influence results

Desire to please

When survey takers answer in ways that they perceive will please the surveyor

Population

the entire group that you are interested in studying

Sample

when a census isn’t possible or practice, a portion of the population is studied

Bias

influence on a study that favors a certain outcome