Avoiding Data Manipulation when Sampling Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 500 words

Avoiding Data Manipulation when Sampling - Essay Example One of the important features in avoiding data manipulation when sampling is to be aware of the imperfections in the survey. There are an infinite number of means by which sampling exhibits imperfect features, and indeed, the idea of a perfect sample is a misnomer. Edwards (2010) indicates that even the color of a survey can alter sampling response. There are a variety of specific means by which researchers and statisticians seek to avoid these data manipulations in sampling. An overarching approach is to ensure that the survey method is designed in as clear and unbiased as possible. In these regards, Edwards (2010, pg. 26-27) identifies a number of key features to avoid, â€Å"failure of the questionnaire...failure to recognize differences between various kinds and degrees of canvass and to fit the questions to the type of canvass...failure to define the universe with enough precision and to provide a satisfactory frame.† Adhering to these methods greatly aids the research av oid data manipulation. In addition to these areas that must be considered when constructing sampling data, there are features that must be considered to avoid sampling bias. As a means of avoiding data manipulation in sampling its generally recommended that researchers implement random sampling as an overarching model. A random sample consists of a random sampling of survey participants and can be conducted through a number of means. Among these involve a simple random sample, stratified sampling, and cluster sampling, with their distinguishing features based on the means by which they select the sample group (Thompson 2002). When examining sample data from the random sample its important to consider the possible statistical error that can be included, as such errors can be utilized in data manipulation when in actuality they are necessary elements of the research. In these regards, human failure must be avoided as