random variable

a variable that takes on different values according to a chance process. These values cannot be predicted with certainty and are assumed to vary across studies; however, their frequency can be described in terms of probability. Also called stochastic variable. Compare fixed variable.

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Psychology term of the day

December 21st 2024

voir dire

the process of questioning prospective jurors to determine if they hold biases that may reasonably interfere with their ability to act impartially in a particular trial (from Norman French, literally: “to speak the truth”). The questions may be asked in private or in open court and may be posed by the attorneys, the judge, or both. Jurors may be asked to stand down by a challenge for cause or a peremptory challenge.