A. Mean
B. Median
C. Mode
D. Sample
Answer is = D
That’s right! In obtaining a representative sample, the length of a test can be an important factor influencing:
D. Sample
Here’s why the other options aren’t directly related to sample representativeness:
- Mean: The mean refers to the average of all the values in a data set. While sample size can affect the mean, it’s not the primary concern when considering representativeness.
- Median: Similar to the mean, the median (the middle value when data is ordered) is a summary statistic of a data set, not a direct indicator of sample representativeness.
- Mode: The mode (the most frequent value) doesn’t tell you anything about how well a sample reflects the broader population.
A representative sample is a subset of a population that accurately reflects the characteristics of the entire population. The length of a test can be crucial in obtaining a representative sample in a few ways:
- Shorter tests might not capture the full range of abilities or knowledge in the population, potentially leading to a biased sample that excludes individuals who perform poorly under time pressure.
- Excessively long tests can lead to fatigue or disengagement, particularly for certain demographics or ability levels. This can also result in a non-representative sample if some participants are more likely to drop out or perform poorly due to the test length.
Therefore, the ideal test length for obtaining a representative sample involves finding a balance that allows sufficient time for participants to demonstrate their abilities without introducing fatigue or bias. This may vary depending on the complexity of the test, the target population, and the specific information being assessed.