Statistical unit
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In different statistical disciplines, the statistical unit is the source of a random variable. There are different ways to study a unit and different names applied
- We may be interested in a unit because we intend to generalize from observations on a few units to a statistical assembly of units. Opinion polling and survey sampling provide well known examples of this type of research.
- We may be interested in the dynamics of a unit, how its observable characteristics change from time to time. Economic studies of business firms provide an example of this type of research. (See dynamic model.)
- We may be interested in the internal functioning of a unit which we can characterize as a statistical assembly. This kind of research often involves interference with the unit such as subjecting it to a treatment or even dissection, in some cases. Field experimentation and clinical trials. are examples.
See also: statistical model