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Guilherme Mazui

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What is the Difference Between Census Survey and Sample Survey?

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The main difference between a census survey and a sample survey lies in the scope of the population being studied and the resources required for each method. Here is a comparison of the two:

Census Survey:

  • Involves collecting data from every member of a population.
  • Requires a large amount of resources and time to conduct the survey and gather data.
  • Provides a complete and accurate representation of the population as it covers all the members.
  • Can be more expensive than sampling as it involves collecting data from every member of the population.
  • Generally takes more time to collect data.
  • Suitable when the population size is small.

Sample Survey:

  • Involves collecting data from a subset or a selected group of the population.
  • Requires fewer resources and is quicker to conduct as it only involves a specific group of the population.
  • Provides an estimate or a general idea of the population based on the sample selected.
  • Is generally less expensive than a census as it only involves a specific group of the population.
  • Takes less time to collect data.
  • Preferred when the population size is large.

In summary, a census survey gathers information from every single member of a population, while a sample survey collects data from a smaller, representative group of the population. Census surveys are more accurate and comprehensive but require more resources and time, while sample surveys are more efficient and cost-effective but provide an estimate of the population based on the selected sample.

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  • What is the Difference Between Census Survey and Sample Survey?
  • Comparative Table: Census Survey vs Sample Survey

    • Comparative Table: Census Survey vs Sample Survey

    Here is a table comparing the differences between a census survey and a sample survey:

    Feature Census Survey Sample Survey
    Meaning A systematic method that collects and records data about all members of a population A method that involves selecting a portion of the population to represent the entire group, in all its characteristics
    Enumeration Complete Partial
    Accuracy High, as all items are taken into consideration Lower, as the results are based on a subset of the population
    Reliability More reliable, as it includes all members of the population Less reliable, as it depends on the size and representativeness of the sample
    Best Suited For Larger populations, as it can provide accurate and reliable results Smaller populations or when a complete enumeration is not feasible, as it can still provide useful insights and estimates
    Error Probability Lower, as all items are considered Higher, as the results depend on the sample size and representativeness
    Use Cases Census surveys, such as the American Community Survey (ACS), and American Housing Survey (AHS) Sample surveys, where a subset of the population is chosen to represent the entire group

    A census survey involves collecting and recording data about all members of a population, ensuring accurate and reliable results. On the other hand, a sample survey involves selecting a portion of the population to represent the entire group, which can be less reliable and accurate depending on the sample size and representativeness.

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    Guilherme Mazui

    Guilherme Mazui is graduated in journalism from the Federal University of Minas Gerais (UFMG) and a master's degree in Communication from the University of São Paulo (USP). In addition, he has experience in advertising writing and has worked as a content editor in several companies.