Question

Determine whether the sampling method described below appears to be sound or is flawed. In a survey of 714 ​subjects, each was asked how often he or she read a book.read a book. The survey subjects were internet users who responded to a question that was posted on a news website.

a) it is flawed because it is a census
b) it is flawed because it is not statistically significant.
c) it appears to be sound because the data are not biased in anyway.
d) it is flawed because it is a voluntary response sample.

Answer 1

Option D) It is flawed because it is a voluntary response sample.

Explanation:

We are given the following information in the question:

The subjects of the survey were internet users who responded to a question that was posted on a news website.

A total of 714 subjects responded to this question, answering the question, how often he or she read a book.

Option D) It is flawed because it is a voluntary response sample.

Voluntary response sample:

• A sample in which the subjects themselves decide whether to be included in the study.
• People chose to be a part or not to be a part of the survey since the question was posted on website.
• Some maybe interested some may not in answering this question.
• A voluntary sample is made up of people who self-select into the survey. Often, these folks have a strong interest in the topic of the survey thus creating a bias.
• Voluntary response bias occurs when sample members are self-selected volunteers.