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Chapter 1: Problem 11

The survey design is flawed. (a) Determine whether the flaw is due to the sampling method or the survey itself For flawed surveys, identify the cause of the error (wording of question, nonresponse, and so forth). (b) Suggest a remedy to the problem. A college vice-president wants to conduct a study regarding the achievement of undergraduate students. He selects the first 50 students who enter the building on a given day and administers his survey.

Short Answer

Expert verified
The flaw is due to a convenience sampling method. Use random sampling instead.

Step by step solution

01

- Identify the Type of Flaw

Analyze the survey design to determine whether the flaw arises from the sampling method or the survey itself. Look at how participants were chosen and how the survey was conducted.
02

- Evaluate Sampling Method

In this case, the vice-president selects the first 50 students who enter the building. This is an example of convenience sampling, which is a problem because it does not provide a representative sample of all undergraduate students.
03

- Identify the Error Cause

The error stems from the sampling method. Specifically, it is the use of convenience sampling, which may lead to bias and does not ensure that all subgroups of students are represented.
04

- Suggest a Remedy

A better approach would be to use a random sampling method. The vice-president could select a random sample of undergraduate students from the entire population, perhaps using student records to randomly choose participants.

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Key Concepts

These are the key concepts you need to understand to accurately answer the question.

sampling methods
Sampling methods are crucial in survey design because they determine the accuracy and reliability of your results. Different methods serve various purposes, but the main goal is to select a sample that represents the entire population.
Common sampling methods include:
  • Simple Random Sampling: Every member has an equal chance of selection.
  • Systematic Sampling: Selects members at regular intervals.
  • Stratified Sampling: Divides the population into subgroups and samples from each.
  • Cluster Sampling: Divides the population into clusters, then randomly selects clusters.
By choosing the right sampling method, you can minimize biases and ensure your survey results are more reliable and valid.
convenience sampling
Convenience sampling involves selecting participants who are easily accessible. This method is quick and inexpensive but has critical drawbacks.
For example, the college vice-president used convenience sampling by selecting the first 50 students entering the building. This introduces several issues:
  • Non-representative Sample: These 50 students may not represent the entire undergraduate population.
  • Bias: The timing and location of the survey may skew the sample towards certain types of students (e.g., morning classes).
To avoid these pitfalls, it's crucial to opt for more scientifically robust methods like random sampling.
random sampling
Random sampling is a method where each member of the population has an equal chance of being selected. It's considered one of the best ways to ensure a representative sample.
Implementing random sampling involves:
  • Defining the Population: Clearly identify the entire group you want to study.
  • Random Selection: Use a random number generator or similar tool to select participants.
This method helps eliminate biases associated with convenience sampling and ensures that all subgroups within the population have a chance to be represented, improving the overall reliability and validity of your survey results.
bias in surveys
Bias in surveys can significantly affect the results, making them unreliable or misleading. Bias can stem from various sources:
  • Sampling Bias: Occurs when the sample is not representative of the population.
  • Question Wording: Leading or confusing questions can skew responses.
  • Nonresponse Bias: When certain groups are less likely to respond, affecting overall results.
To minimize bias, consider the following:
  • Use random sampling to select participants.
  • Design clear and neutral questions.
  • Follow up with non-respondents to encourage participation.
With careful survey design and thoughtful sampling methods, you can greatly reduce bias and ensure more accurate outcomes.

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Most popular questions from this chapter

Depression Researchers wanted to compare the effectiveness and safety of an extract of St. John's wort with placebo in outpatients with major depression. To do this, they recruited 200 adult outpatients diagnosed as having major depression and having a baseline Hamilton Rating Scale for Depression (HAM-D) score of at least \(20 .\) Participants were randomly assigned to receive either St. John's wort extract (900 mg/d for 4 weeks, increased to \(1200 \mathrm{mg} / \mathrm{d}\) in the absence of an adequate response thereafter) or a placebo for 8 weeks. The response variable was the change on the HAM-D over the treatment period. After analysis of the data, it was concluded that St. John's wort was not effective for treatment of major depression. (Source: "Effectiveness of St. John's Wort in Major Depression," Richard C. Shelton, MD; et. al.; Journal of the American Medical Association \(285(2001): 1978-1986)\) (a) What type of experimental design is this? (b) What is the population that is being studied? (c) What is the response variable in this study? (d) What is the factor? What are the treatments? (e) Identify the experimental units. (f) Draw a diagram similar to Figure 6 or 7 to illustrate the design.

People often respond to survey questions without any knowledge of the subject matter. A common example of this is the discussion on banning dihydrogen monoxide. The Centers for Disease Control (CDC) reports that there were 1,493 deaths due to asbestos in \(2002,\) but over 3,200 deaths were attributed to dihydrogen monoxide in \(2000 .\) Articles and Web sites, such as www.dhmo.org tell how this substance is widely used despite the dangers associated with it. Many people have joined the cause to ban this substance without realizing that dihydrogen monoxide is simply water \(\left(\mathrm{H}_{2} \mathrm{O}\right) .\) Their eagerness to protect the environment or their fear of seeming uninformed may be part of the problem. Put together a survey that asks individuals whether dihydrogen monoxide should or should not be banned. Give the survey to 20 randomly selected students around campus and report your results to the class. An example survey might look like the following: Dihydrogen monoxide is colorless, odorless, and kills thousands of people every year. Most of these deaths are caused by accidental inhalation, but the dangers of dihydrogen monoxide do not stop there. Prolonged exposure to its solid form can severely damage skin tissue. Symptoms of ingestion can include excessive sweating and urination and possibly a bloated feeling, nausea, vomiting, and body electrolyte imbalance. Dihydrogen monoxide is a major component of acid rain and can cause corrosion after coming in contact with certain metals. Do you believe that the government should or should not ban the use of dihydrogen monoxide?

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