Sampling variation

The variation in a sample statistic from sample to sample.

Suppose a sample is taken and a sample statistic, such as a sample mean, is calculated. If a second sample of the same size is taken from the same population, it is almost certain that the sample mean calculated from this sample will be different from that calculated from the first sample. If further sample means are calculated, by repeatedly taking samples of the same size from the same population, then the differences in these sample means illustrate sampling variation.

Alternative: chance variation

Curriculum achievement objectives references

Statistical investigation: Levels 5, 6, 7, 8

Probability: Levels 3, 4, 5, 6

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