sampling error

the predictable margin of error that occurs in studies of samples of cases or observations from a larger population: It indicates the possible variance between the true value of a parameter in the population and the estimate of that value made from the sample data. For example, a sampling error of 3% in a large national survey finding that 65% of citizens prefer a particular policy means that the true figure could be anywhere between 62% and 68%.

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Psychology term of the day

November 22nd 2024

monophasic sleep

a sleep pattern in which sleeping occurs in one long period once a day, typically at night. Compare polyphasic sleep. See also sleep–wake cycle.