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Random and Systematic Errors

Author: Jonathan Osters
Video Transcript
Terms to Know
Measurement Bias

A mistake in the measurements taken in the study. This is a systematic error.

Random Error

When the resulting value obtained from the sample does not match the value from the population simply by chance. This is not a mistake, but is inherent in the variability in sampling.

Selection Bias

A bias that occurs when certain groups are systematically left out of the sample. This is a systematic error.

Systematic Error

When the resulting value obtained from the sample does not match the value from the population as a result of an incorrect measurement or bias. This is a mistake made by the researcher.