The provided answer key suggests 'Population', which is conceptually unclear in this context. Generally, increasing the sample size reduces the sampling error, as the sample mean becomes a more precise estimate of the population mean. The provided answer appears to be a placeholder or error.
1382
Which of the following actions is effective in reducing sampling error?
Sampling error refers to the difference between a sample statistic and the actual population parameter. By increasing the sample size, the sample becomes more representative of the population, which reduces the margin of error and improves the reliability of the statistical estimates derived from the data.
1383
Which term describes unpredictable fluctuations in an observation?
Random error refers to unpredictable fluctuations in measurements due to factors like environmental noise or observer subjectivity. It is distinct from systematic errors, which are consistent and reproducible. Random error affects the precision of measurements but typically averages out over a large number of observations.
1384
Which of the following factors are considered potential sources of non-sampling errors in a research study?
Non-sampling errors arise from factors other than the sample selection process itself. These include errors in data collection, such as incorrect enumeration, poor questionnaire design, non-response, or processing errors. All the listed options are valid examples of non-sampling errors.
1385
Which action is suggested to reduce non-sampling errors?
Non-sampling errors stem from data collection, measurement, or processing flaws rather than the sampling process itself. Reducing the volume of data can sometimes mitigate these errors by allowing for more rigorous quality control, reducing respondent fatigue, and minimizing human error during data entry and processing stages.
1386
How is sampling error defined in relation to the sample mean?
Sampling error is the statistical discrepancy between a sample statistic (such as the sample mean) and the actual population parameter (the population mean). It occurs naturally because a sample is only a subset of the population and does not perfectly replicate all population characteristics.
1387
What term describes the absolute difference between a population parameter and its corresponding unbiased sample estimate?
Sampling error refers to the natural variation that occurs when a sample is used to estimate a population parameter. It is defined as the difference between the true population value and the estimate derived from a random sample. This error is inherent in any sampling process and is not due to mistakes in data collection or measurement.
1388
How is the discrepancy between a population parameter and its corresponding unbiased point estimator formally defined?
Sampling error refers to the difference between a population parameter and the sample statistic used to estimate it. When an estimator is unbiased, the expected value of the estimator equals the parameter, but any single sample estimate will likely deviate from the true parameter due to the inherent randomness of the sampling process.
1389
In stratified sampling, what is the term for the sample selected randomly from each individual stratum?
Stratified sampling involves dividing a population into homogeneous subgroups called strata. The random sample taken from each of these strata is referred to as a sub-sample, which is then aggregated to form the total sample for the study.
1390
In what scenario is cluster sampling considered a particularly useful methodology?
Cluster sampling is highly efficient when the population is geographically dispersed. By selecting clusters, researchers can reduce travel costs and logistical burdens associated with collecting data from widely separated units, even if the units within a cluster are heterogeneous. Note: The provided answer key suggests 'Far a part', which is a common justification for cluster sampling efficiency.
