MR. TOWNSLEY'S
MATH DEPARTMENT


Basic Terminology - Chapter 1

A population is the complete collection of all elements (scores, people, measurements, etc.) to be studied.

- A parameter is a numerical measurement describing some characteristic of a population.

- A census is the collection of data from every element in a population.(very difficult to do)

A sample is a subcollection of elements drawn from a population.

- A statistic is a numerical measurement describing some characteristic of a sample.

2 Types of Data - Quantitative vs. Qualitative

- Quantitative data consist of numbers representing counts or measurements. (Tells how many or how much)

- Discrete data can be counted.

- Continuous (numerical) data can be measured.

- Qualitative(or attribute) data can be separated into different categories that are distinguished by some nonnumeric characteristic. (Tells what type)

Levels of Measurement of Data

- Nominal: Categories only. Data cannot be arranged in any order.

- Ordinal: Categories are ordered, but differences cannot be determined or they are meaningless.

- Interval: Differences between values are meaningful, but there is no natural starting point. Ratios have no meaning.

- Ratio: Differences between values are meaningful and there is a natural zero starting point. Ratios are meaningful.

Design of Experiments

- In an observational study, we observe and measure specific characteristics, but we do nothing to the subjects being studied.

- In an experiment, we apply some treatment (do something to the subjects) and then proceed to observe its effects on the subjects.

- 4 Basic Steps in Experimental Design

1. Identify your objective. This involves developing the research question.

2. Collect sample data. Collecting the data in an appropriate manner is crucial.

3. Use a random procedure that avoids bias.

4. Analyze data and form conclusions.

- Confounding occurs in an experiment when the effects from two or more variables cannot be disinguished from each other.

Sampling Techniques

In order, from least to most desirable:

- Convenience Sampling: Use whatever subjects that are readily available.

- Systematic Sampling: Select every nth subject.

- Cluster Sampling: Divide the population area into sections, randomly select a few sections, and then choose all subjects in those sections.

- Stratified Sampling: Classify the population into at least two categories, then draw a sample from each.

- Random Sampling: Each subject in the population has an equal chance of being selected.

A sampling error is the difference between a sample result and the true population result; such an error results from chance sample fluctuations.

A nonsampling error occurs when the sample data are incorrectly collected, recorded, or analyzed (such as by selecting a biased sample, using a defective measuring instrument, or copying the data incorrectly.)




E-mail Mr. Townsley at ktownsley@po-1.central-clinton.k12.ia.us