OpenStax - Ch. 1 Sampling and Data Flashcards
Average
also called mean; a number that describes the central tendency of the data.
Blinding
not telling participants which treatment a subject is receiving.
Categorical Variable
variables that take on values that are names or labels.
Cluster Sampling
a method for selecting a random sample and dividing the population into groups (clusters); use simple random sampling to select a set of clusters. Every individual in the chosen clusters is included in the sample.
Continuous Random Variable
a random variable (RV) whose outcomes are measured; the height of trees in the forest is a continuous RV.
Control Group
a group in a randomized experiment that receives an inactive treatment but is otherwise managed exactly as the other groups.
Convenience Sampling
a nonrandom method of selecting a sample; this method selects individuals that are easily accessible and may result in biased data.
Cumulative Relative Frequency
The term applies to an ordered set of observations from smallest to largest. The cumulative relative frequency is the sum of the relative frequencies for all values that are less than or equal to the given value.
Data
a set of observations (a set of possible outcomes); most data can be put into two groups: qualitative (an attribute whose value is indicated by a label) or quantitative (an attribute whose value is indicated by a number). Quantitative data can be separated into two subgroups: discrete and continuous. Data is discrete if it is the result of counting (such as the number of students of a given ethnic group in a class or the number of books on a shelf). Data is continuous if it is the result of measuring (such as distance traveled or weight of luggage)
Discrete Random Variable
a random variable (RV) whose outcomes are counted.
Double-blinding
the act of blinding both the subjects of an experiment and the researchers who work with the subjects.
Experimental Unit
any individual or object to be measured.
Explanatory Variable
the independent variable in an experiment; the value controlled by researchers.
Frequency
the number of times a value of the data occurs.
Informed Consent
Any human subject in a research study must be cognizant of any risks or costs associated with the study. The subject has the right to know the nature of the treatments included in the study, their potential risks, and their potential benefits. Consent must be given freely by an informed, fit participant.
Institutional Review Board
a committee tasked with oversight of research programs that involve human subjects.
Lurking Variable
a variable that has an effect on a study even though it is neither an explanatory variable nor a response variable.