Final answer:
a. Method 1: Observational study; b. Method 2: Designed experiment; c. Application of inferential statistics; d. Recommend Method 2 for a more balanced treatment and control group distribution.
Step-by-step explanation:
Certainly, let's break down each part:
a. Data collection method for Method 1:
Choice: A. Published source
Explanation: In Method 1, the data collection method involves obtaining information from existing published sources, possibly reports, studies, or databases. This could include crime statistics or research findings that have already been documented and made publicly available.
b. Data collection method for Method 2:
Choice: A. Designed experiment
Explanation: Method 2 involves a designed experiment where hot spots are divided into subgroups based on the level of drug crimes. The random assignment of the new crime prevention program to half of the hot spots is a key characteristic of a designed experiment.
c. Application of descriptive or inferential statistics:
Choice: A. It is an application of inferential statistics because it utilizes sample data to make a generalization about a larger set of data, the drug crime rate.
Explanation: Inferential statistics involves making predictions or inferences about a population based on a sample of data.
In this case, the goal is to generalize the impact of the new crime prevention program on the drug crime rate across all hot spots based on the data collected from a subset of hot spots.
d. Recommendation for data collection method considering variation in drug crime rates:
Choice: B. Recommend Method 2 since more of the overall population will be in the treatment group, which will help to show where the variability lies.
Explanation: Method 2, with its division of hot spots into subgroups based on the level of drug crimes, allows for a more detailed analysis of the impact of the new crime prevention program.
Having more of the overall population in the treatment group enhances the ability to identify patterns and variability in drug crime rates, providing a more comprehensive understanding of the program's effectiveness.