Search results
Results from the WOW.Com Content Network
For example, explanatory power over all existing observations (criterion 3) is satisfied by no one theory at the moment. [ 10 ] Whatever might be the ultimate goals of some scientists, science, as it is currently practiced, depends on multiple overlapping descriptions of the world, each of which has a domain of applicability.
Model-based assumptions. These include the following three types: Distributional assumptions. Where a statistical model involves terms relating to random errors, assumptions may be made about the probability distribution of these errors. [5] In some cases, the distributional assumption relates to the observations themselves. Structural assumptions.
Assumptions vs. inferences: In uncertainty and sensitivity analysis there is a crucial trade off between how scrupulous an analyst is in exploring the input assumptions and how wide the resulting inference may be. The point is well illustrated by the econometrician Edward E. Leamer: [58] [59]
Statistical inference makes propositions about a population, using data drawn from the population with some form of sampling.Given a hypothesis about a population, for which we wish to draw inferences, statistical inference consists of (first) selecting a statistical model of the process that generates the data and (second) deducing propositions from the model.
The unit of analysis should also not be confused with the unit of observation.The unit of observation is a subset of the unit of analysis. [citation needed] A study may have a differing unit of observation and unit of analysis: for example, in community research, the research design may collect data at the individual level of observation but the level of analysis might be at the neighborhood ...
Indirect observation can be used if one wishes to be entirely unobtrusive in their observation method. This can often be useful if a researcher is approaching a particularly sensitive topic that would be likely to elicit reactivity in the subject. There are also potential ethical concerns that are avoided by using the indirect observational method.
These assumptions or beliefs will also affect how a person utilizes the observations as evidence. For example, the Earth's apparent lack of motion may be taken as evidence for a geocentric cosmology. However, after sufficient evidence is presented for heliocentric cosmology and the apparent lack of motion is explained, the initial observation ...
This example of design experiments is attributed to Harold Hotelling, building on examples from Frank Yates. [21] [22] [14] The experiments designed in this example involve combinatorial designs. [23] Weights of eight objects are measured using a pan balance and set of standard weights. Each weighing measures the weight difference between ...