Need help on if the sample given is random or not random.
The first 50 nurses at a nursing convention write their names on slips of paper and place them in a drawing box. After the box is shaken, 20 names are pulled from the box and each person chosen completes a survey about their transportation to the convention.
Thanks...
It's not random. Only the first arrivals were sampled.
However, if the questionnaire were geared to elicit information from only the first arrivals, then the sample would not be random.
To determine if the sample given is random or not, we need to understand the characteristics of a random sample. A random sample is obtained by selecting individuals from a population in such a way that every member of the population has an equal chance of being included in the sample. This ensures that the sample represents the population fairly, without any bias.
Based on the given information, we can evaluate if the sample is random or not:
1. Method of selection: The method of selection is crucial in determining whether a sample is random or not. In this case, the names of the 50 nurses were written on slips of paper and placed in a drawing box. Since the method does not specify any deliberate bias or restrictions in selecting the names, it suggests a random selection process.
2. Equal chance of selection: For a sample to be random, every member of the population should have an equal chance of being selected. In this scenario, all 50 nurses have an equal probability of being chosen because their names are placed in the drawing box, and no restrictions are specified.
3. Sample size: The sample size of 20 nurses is relatively small compared to the total population of 50 nurses, but it can still provide valuable insights if the sample is randomly selected.
Based on the information provided, it seems that the sample is likely to be random. The names of the nurses were written on slips of paper, placed in a drawing box, and then 20 names were pulled from the box. This method ensures that every nurse had an equal chance of being selected. However, it's important to note that to make a final determination, we would need additional context or information, such as whether any bias was involved in the drawing or if there were any restrictions on which names were placed in the box.