Question

A study was conducted by a local high school with a graduating class of 450 to determine what factor most influenced the students' choice of which university to attend after high school. 98 students participated in the study; 58 students said that the location of the university was the most important factor in their decision. The results were published stating that 266 students in the graduating class would consider location as the greatest influence in determining which college to attend. What is the problem with this study?

Answer 1

They calculated what percent of the students in the study said location was the most important factor (.5918), then used that percentage and the 450 to get the 266. This is extrapolation, or using figures for beyond what their purpose is. 

Answer 2

The study used a sample of students, ie 98 students in a universe of 450 students. The sample for this type of survey is random. The survey found that 58 students out of 98 respondents, or approximately 59% of students consider the location a decisive factor in choosing the university. However, the mistake of the study was to apply this percentage to the total universe of students and come to the conclusion that 266 students (60% of 450) consider the same thing.

It cannot be done. Statistically, a sample study has about 95% confidence. However, since the sample is random, if the experiment is run again, there is a 5% chance of reaching another value.

Therefore, the correct conclusion would be to keep only the sample universe and point out that 60% of students in that school consider location a fundamental factor. Another option would be to extend the research to the entire universe of students, so that they can make a statement under the total.