Study design

This course contains 4 segments:

Sampling and observational studies

When we want to gather data from a large population, we survey or observe a sample from that population. This lesson covers sampling and survey methods and the types of conclusions that can be drawn.

Sampling methods

The goal of sampling is to get a group that is representative of its population. This lesson explores different strategies we can use — like stratified and cluster sampling — to get a good sample. We'll also look at possible sources of bias in voluntary response and convenience sampling.

Types of studies (experimental vs. observational)

This lesson covers how to distinguish between a few primary types of studies used to collect data. Learning to identify a study as either observational or experimental helps us in making appropriate conclusions.

Experiments

An experiment assigns some subjects to receive a treatment while others don't get the treatment. Experiments allow us to see how a treatment affects changes in a response variable. This lesson covers basic principles of experiment design.