Sampling, randomization and confounding
Selection and treatment assignment answer different questions.
Key knowledge
Sampling selects units from a target population; random assignment allocates study units to treatments. Randomization addresses systematic treatment-group differences, while confounding can obstruct causal interpretation of observational associations.
Conditions and scope
- State the target population, selection process and treatment allocation.
- Random assignment does not guarantee exact finite-sample balance or population representativeness; measurement and follow-up still matter.
Sources · 2
References
Sources retain their recorded scope. A source link alone does not establish verification of every statement.
Evidence and review
Study question/design sequence, confounding and randomized treatment assignment, physical pages 1–7. Random sampling versus treatment assignment and limits of generalizing from a restricted participant pool; causal overstatements excluded.
2026-10-10 · Sampling/assignment distinction and confounding; unqualified causal guarantees excluded.
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