Meanings of Concepts Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Meanings of Concepts - Essay Example In other words these are dependent on the independent variable and the values are considerably influenced by it. 8. Validity: It refers to the extent to which a study precisely represents the definite concept that the researcher is trying to measure. Validity is concerned with the studys success at measuring a particular aspect that the researcher is trying study. 11. Data collection: Researchers collect information regarding various aspects related to the study and the data that is collected contributes to the finding or the final outcome. In other words it is the activity of accumulating primary data records for a given set of observations. 12. Unit of analysis: A statistical unit is the unit of study or size for which data are collected or derived. The selection of units of analysis accurately captures the characteristics of the larger population (uchicago.edu). 13. Population: A population refers to a set of variables collected or data collected for the complete set of objects of analysis. For example, the students in a class, the collection of votes (uchicago.edu). 15. Representativeness: â€Å"It is the desirable properties of a sample which refers to the selection of units of analysis that precisely detain the characteristics of the larger population† (uchicago.edu). 16. Random sample: â€Å"A random sample is one selected by a method connecting a random component. Random sampling can also consign to taking numerous independent observations from the same probability distribution, without involving any real population†. 17. Discrete variable: â€Å"A discrete variable is one that will not take on all values within the limits of the variable†. For instance, responses to a three point rating scale can only take on the values 1, 2 and 3 and not the value 1.5 or 1.2. 19. Continuous variable: â€Å"A continuous variable is one for which, within the limits