When a scientist is conducting an experiment and gathering data, he or she will need to determine which method they will be collecting it. There are statistical and nonstatistical methods to do that. First, they must see what kind of sampling they are gathering. If it is a statistical method, then the scientist will use numbers that are objective.
If the scientist is using nonstatistical methods, then he or she will be using their judgment and opinions. There are three main parts to these sampling or methods of gathering data no matter if they are statistical or nonstatistical. These methods include the sample size of the population, the items selected for the test group and how the results are evaluated.
Statistical sampling will take into account numbers of each sample. It will look at a number of samples in a control group as well as numbers in the test group. The sampling will be exact and able to provide numerical data.
Non-statistical sampling will take into consideration the test group as well as the control but will not keep track of many numbers. The information gleaned is based on more of a judgement about the sampling than actual numbers.
Statistical sampling is the use of mathematical measurement techniques to calculate formal statistical results. the auditor therefore quantifies sampling risk when statistical sampling is used. in non-statistical sampling, the auditor does not quantify sampling risk. instead, conclusions are reached about populations on a more judgmental basis. for both statistical and non-statistical methods, the three main parts are: 1. plan the sample 2. select the sample and perform the tests 3. evaluate the results(lo #15-2)