Key Concepts:
- When Can Study Results Be Generalized? Results from a sample can only be generalized if the sample is randomly selected from the intended population.
- Limitations in Generalization: If the sample is biased or only represents a subgroup, conclusions should not be applied to the full population.
Skills Covered:
- Evaluating whether a study’s results apply to a broader population.
- Identifying incorrect assumptions about generalization.
Example Problem:
A study surveys only students who study more than 10 hours per week and finds they perform better on tests. Can this conclusion apply to all students? (Correct answer: No, because the sample does not represent all students, only those who study extensively.)