5 Summary of Week 2

In this week you have looked at ways to take samples of data from a larger population and considered important aspects that may affect the validity of the sample. You should now understand how to take samples using a selection of different methods, including with the aid of a calculator or computer such as in random sampling.

At the beginning of Week 2 we stated, ‘it is rare that a data value from every possible person or for every data specimen has been collected’ and suggested you reflect why this might be; having worked through this week you should now be able to offer some sound reasons for this. These reasons might include practicality, efficiency or opportunity in collecting the data.

You should also now be able to identify qualitative and quantitative data; this will be useful in the upcoming weeks and is important in ensuring appropriate decisions are made regarding presentation and interpretation of data.

Finally, you looked at the use of tables as a means of collecting and organising data. In doing so, some issues learners face when introduced to data organised in table format were shared so you can be aware of these and seek to resolve them in your own teaching.