Using the Tool

Data Sampling: Representing Many by Sampling Some is an interactive tool that illustrates how representative samples help solve real-world problems. Using the fictional town of Statsboro, the tool also demonstrates how results can become inaccurate when a sample is not representative of the population as a whole. The town may be imaginary, but the math is real!

Definitions

  • Population:A group of individuals or objects that have characteristics we want to determine.
  • Sample:A selection of individuals taken from the population to find out information about the population as a whole.
  • Representative:Reflective of the population as a whole.
  • Survey:A collection of data from the population, usually via asking questions.
  • Confidence Level:The degree of certainty we have that the results of a sample reflect the population plus or minus a margin of error (Data Sampling: Representing Many by Sampling Some uses a margin of error of 5%).

Ideas for Use

  • Analyze Adjustments:Try adjusting one survey variable at a time to pinpoint how that variable affects the results. Compare your results to draw conclusions.
  • Talk It Out:Check out the questions that appear at the end of a survey session to push your thinking. Share your thoughts with peers and get their input. Don’t forget to cite evidence from the surveys! Make connections and look for patterns across surveys. Point out relevant unknowns and suggest follow-up survey questions that could be used to find out more. Let your imagination run wild!
  • Take the Lead:Take the investigation further by coming up with your own thought-provoking questions about the results. Discuss with your classmates.

Browser Compatibility

  • Internet Explorer (9+)
  • Firefox (30+)
  • Safari (6+)
  • Chrome (37+)