Textbook Question
Determine whether each number describes a population parameter or a sample statistic. Explain.
In a recent year, the average evidence-based reading and writing score on the SAT was 528. (Source: College Board)
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Ch. 1 - Introduction to Statistics
Larson8th EditionElementary Statistics: Picturing the WorldISBN: 9780137493470
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Table of contents
- Ch. 1 - Introduction to Statistics87
- Ch. 2 - Descriptive Statistics176
- Ch. 3 - Probability184
- Ch. 4 - Discrete Probability Distributions102
- Ch. 5 - Normal Probability Distributions183
- Ch. 6 - Confidence Intervals154
- Ch. 7 - Hypothesis Testing with One Sample165
- Ch. 8 - Hypothesis Testing with Two Samples134
- Ch. 9 - Correlation and Regression87
- Ch. 10 - Chi-Square Tests and the F-Distribution87
Larson8th EditionElementary Statistics: Picturing the WorldISBN: 9780137493470Not the one you use?Change textbook
Chapter 1, Problem 1.T.5a
Determine whether the survey question is biased. If the question is biased, suggest a better wording.
How many hours of sleep do you get on a normal night?
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Identify whether the question is leading or biased. In this case, the phrase 'on a normal night' may introduce bias because it assumes the respondent has a consistent sleep pattern, which might not be true for everyone.
Consider how the wording could influence the respondent's answer. For example, respondents might feel compelled to estimate their sleep based on what they perceive as 'normal,' rather than their actual sleep habits.
To reduce bias, rephrase the question to be more neutral and inclusive. For instance, you could ask, 'On average, how many hours of sleep do you get per night?' This removes the assumption of a 'normal night' and focuses on the respondent's overall sleep pattern.
Ensure the revised question is clear and easy to understand, avoiding any terms that might confuse or influence the respondent's answer.
Test the revised question with a small group to confirm that it is unbiased and elicits accurate responses before using it in a larger survey.
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Key Concepts
Here are the essential concepts you must grasp in order to answer the question correctly.
Survey Bias
Survey bias occurs when the wording of a question influences the responses, leading to inaccurate or skewed results. This can happen if the question is leading, ambiguous, or assumes certain behaviors. Understanding bias is crucial for designing effective surveys that yield reliable data.
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03:06
Intro to Random Variables & Probability Distributions Example 1
Question Wording
The way a survey question is phrased can significantly impact how respondents interpret and answer it. Neutral wording is essential to avoid influencing the respondent's answer. For example, asking 'How many hours of sleep do you get on a normal night?' may imply a standard that not all respondents share.
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06:19Intro to Frequency Distributions Example 1
Response Options
Providing clear and appropriate response options is vital for gathering accurate data. If a question lacks specific options or is too open-ended, it can lead to confusion or misinterpretation. A well-structured question should allow respondents to express their true experiences without ambiguity.
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Related Practice
Textbook Question
Determine whether the survey question is biased. If the question is biased, suggest a better wording.
Do you agree that the town’s ban on skateboarding in parks is unfair?
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Textbook Question
Determine whether the number describes a population parameter or a sample statistic. Explain your reasoning.
In a survey of 1000 household food purchasers, 24.7% say that they avoid meat, dairy, and eggs produced by animals living in confined conditions. (Source: FoodPrint)
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Textbook Question
Determine whether the data are qualitative or quantitative, and determine the level of measurement of the data set. Explain your reasoning.
The numbers of employees at fast-food restaurants in a city are listed.
20 11 6 31 17 23 12 18 40 22 13 8 18 14 37 32 25 27 25 18
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Textbook Question
Which part of the survey described in Exercise 3 represents the descriptive branch of statistics? Make an inference based on the results of the survey.
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Textbook Question
Identify the sampling technique used, and discuss potential sources of bias (if any). Explain.
Questioning teachers as they leave a faculty lounge, a researcher asks 45 of them about their teaching styles.
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