Section 1.1

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What is Data?

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Data refers to the raw facts and figures collected for analysis. In the context of the study, the GPAs (3.65, 2.80, 1.50, 3.90) are examples of data.

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What is a Population?

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A population is the entire group of individuals or instances about whom we hope to learn. In the study, all students who attended the college last year represent the population.

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What is a Variable?

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A variable is any characteristic, number, or quantity that can be measured or counted. The cumulative GPA of each student who graduated from the college last year is an example of a variable.

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What is a Statistic?

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A statistic is a numerical value that summarizes or describes a characteristic of a sample. The average cumulative GPA of 1000 randomly selected students is an example of a statistic.

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What is a Parameter?

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A parameter is a numerical value that summarizes or describes a characteristic of a population. The average cumulative GPA of all students who graduated from the college last year is an example of a parameter.

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What is the difference between a Sample and a Population?

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A sample is a subset of individuals selected from a population, while a population includes all individuals of interest. For example, 1000 students (sample) vs. all students who graduated (population).

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What is the purpose of collecting Data in a study?

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The purpose of collecting data is to analyze and draw conclusions about a population based on the information gathered from a sample.

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How can you differentiate between a Statistic and a Parameter?

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A statistic is derived from a sample, while a parameter is derived from the entire population. Statistics estimate parameters.

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What is an example of qualitative data?

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Qualitative data describes characteristics or qualities and cannot be measured numerically. For example, student majors (e.g., Biology, History) are qualitative data.

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What is an example of quantitative data?

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Quantitative data consists of numerical values that can be measured. For example, the number of students graduating with honors is quantitative data.