Cornell Notes

Topic: 1.3.1 Data Collection and Experimental

EssentialDesign
Question:
Objectives:
Know how to design a statistical study
Distinguish between an observational study and an
experiment
Question/Main
Idea:
Notes:

What are the guidelines for

creating a statistical study?

Name
Date 8/22/16
Class
Period

The goal of every statistical study is to collect data and then use the
data to make a decision. Even if you never develop one, it is likely
that you will interpret the results of one.
Guidelines:
1. Identify the variable(s) of interest (the focus) and the population of
the study.
2. Develop a detailed plan for collecting data. If you use a sample,
make sure the sample is representative of the population.
3. Collect the data.
4. Describe the data, using descriptive statistics techniques.
5. Interpret the data and make decisions about the population using
inferential statistics.
6. Identify any possible errors.

What types of statistical

studies exist?

2 main types of statistical studies:

1) Observational Study: a researcher observes and measures
characteristics of interest of a part of a population but does not
change existing conditions.
ex. A study is conducted to investigate the relationship
between owning pets and happiness. 100 subjects are
randomly selected and data on whether or not a pet is
owned and a happiness score (110, 10 being extremely
happy) are obtained.
Population of Interest: All humans
2) Experiment: subjects are assigned to treatments groups for the
purpose of seeing what effect the treatment has on some response.
ex. A group of students is interested in knowing if the number of
times they can sink a basketball is related to the color of the
basketball. The students shoot a series of baskets and record their
success using a regulation colored basketball. They then switch to
a blue colored basketball and shoot the same series of baskets. A
statistical analysis is performed.
Treatment: Different Colored Basketballs
Explanatory Var: Color of Basketball, Response Var: # of shots
made

Cornell Notes
Question/Main Idea:
What are some methods of
collecting data?

Notes:
Other than conducting an observation or experiment yourself, there
are other ways collecting data.
**RANDOMIZATION MUST BE USED when setting up any type of
statistical survey in order to REDUCE BIAS.
Survey: Conducted by collecting information of one or more
characteristics about a population. Most often carried out on a
sample of people. Wording of questions is very important. Bias can
be an issue brought on by mis-worded questions or improper
sampling.
Simulation: Using a mathematical or physical model to reproduce
the conditions of a situation or process. Allow researchers to
recreate situations that are impractical or even dangerous to do in
real life. Simulations can save time and money, as well.

Summary