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Measurement Error

Definition

Measurement error refers to inaccuracies or discrepancies that occur when collecting data or taking measurements in research or polling. It can result from various factors such as respondent bias, interviewer errors, or flawed measurement instruments.

Analogy

Imagine you're baking cookies using an old recipe with incorrect measurements printed on it. Even if you follow the instructions precisely, your cookies may turn out differently than expected due to these measurement errors. Similarly, in polling, measurement errors can lead to inaccurate results even if proper methods are followed.

Related terms

Nonresponse bias: Nonresponse bias occurs when certain individuals chosen for a survey refuse or fail to participate, leading to a skewed representation of the population and potential measurement errors.

Response bias: Response bias refers to systematic inaccuracies caused by respondents' tendencies to answer questions in a certain way, leading to biased results.

Leading questions: Leading questions are survey questions that subtly guide or influence respondents towards a particular response, potentially introducing measurement errors by influencing their answers.