Term | Definition |
mean | The sum of a set of data points divided by the number of data points. (Also known as average) |
median | The middle number or the mean of the two middle numbers in an ordered set of data. |
compare | To note the similarities or differences of. |
population | The entire group of people or things that are being analyzed. |
sample | Part of the population upon which an experiment or survey is conducted. |
survey | Method to collect data from a sample or population to study some characteristics of the group. |
representative samples | A subset of a statistical population that accurately reflects the members of the entire population. |
biased sample | A sample collected in such a way that some members of the intended population are less likely to be included than others. |
unbiased sample | A sample collected in such a way that all members of the intended population have a fair opportunity to be included in the sample as others. |
inference | A conclusion reached on the basis of evidence and reasoning. |
simple random sampling | A part of a population chosen randomly and entirely by chance where each member of the subgroup has an equal opportunity to be chosen at any stage during the sampling process. (Example: draw a name from a hat) |
systematic random sampling | A part of a population chosen by fixed intervals where each member of the subgroup has an equal opportunity to be chosen at any stage during the sampling process. (Example: select every tenth person) |
stratified random sampling | A part of a population chosen by grouping the population then choosing randomly where each member of the subgroup has an equal opportunity to be chosen at any stage during the sampling process. (Example: Select an equal number of boys and girls) |
draw inference | To make a conclusion through observation and reasoning. |
characteristic | A feature or quality belonging typically to a person, place, or thing. |
observe | To watch, view, and note for a purpose. |
variability | The extent to which data points in a data set spread out from the mean value. |
range | The difference between the lowest and highest values in a data set. |
mean absolute deviation | (MAD) The average of the distance between the data points of a data set and the mean of the same data set. |
absolute value | The distance a number is from zero. |
similar | Resembling without being identical. |
box-and-whisker plot | A graphic way to show how data is distributed by using the median, quartiles, and minimum and maximum values on a number line. |
quartile | The median of the upper or lower half of a data set. |
second quartile | The median of the data set which divides the data set in half. |
First quartile | The median of the lower half of a data set. |
Third Quartile | The median of the upper half of a data set. |
valid | A point of view that can be supported with facts. |
outlier | A data value that is far removed from the rest of the data. |
predictable | Able to estimate a future event. |
analyze | Examine to gather information from. |