Population

Definition§

In statistics, the term “population” refers to the complete set of elements (people, objects, events, etc.) that share at least one common trait or characteristic. It is from this population that researchers draw samples to conduct analyses and make inferences. The term is widely used in various fields such as demography, sociology, economics, and health sciences.

Examples§

1. National Census: A government’s collection of information about its citizens to understand demographics, such as the total population, age distribution, employment status, etc.
2. Customer Base: All individuals who purchase a company’s goods or services.
3. Clinical Trial Participants: The total group of individuals participating in a clinical study to test the effectiveness of a new drug.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)§

1. What is the difference between a population and a sample?§

A population includes all members from a specified group, while a sample consists of a subset of the population selected for analysis.

2. Why is sampling often necessary?§

Sampling is necessary because it is often impractical or impossible to collect data from every member of a population due to time, cost, or logistical constraints.

3. Can populations be infinite?§

Yes, populations can be theoretically infinite when the number of possible observations is limitless, such as all possible outcomes of repeated dice rolls.

4. What is a stratified population?§

A stratified population is divided into subgroups (strata) that share similar characteristics. This division facilitates more precise analyses.

5. How do researchers ensure a sample is representative of the population?§

Researchers use various sampling techniques such as random sampling, stratified sampling, and systematic sampling to ensure the sample adequately reflects the larger population.

Related Terms§

• Sample: A subset of the population selected for study.
• Census: A complete enumeration of a population.
• Parameter: A measurable attribute that describes a characteristic of a population.
• Statistic: A measure that describes an attribute of a sample.
• Stratification: Division of a population into subgroups.

Online References§

1. Investopedia - Population Definition
2. Wikipedia - Population (Statistics)
3. Statistical Help - Population vs. Sample

Suggested Books for Further Studies§

1. “Introductory Statistics” by Sheldon M. Ross
2. “The Essentials of Statistics: A Tool for Social Research” by Joseph F. Healey
3. “Statistical Inference” by George Casella and Roger L. Berger

Fundamentals of Population: Statistics Basics Quiz§

Thank you for advancing your understanding of statistical populations! Keep delving into the intricacies of statistical analysis to strengthen your expertise.