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Negatively Skewed Distribution - Refers to a distribution where the mode has the largest value, followed by the median, then the mean. The graph of this type of distribution will show most of the scores piled up on the right hand side of the distribution, with a tail tapering to the left.
Nominal Scales - At the lowest level of measurement, nominal scales are qualitative in nature. They do not have magnitude or any other mathematical attribute; they describe a state of being. They are measured in terms of non-numerical qualities, dividing characteristics into categories. Examples are gender, hair color, and religion.
Noncoverage Error - Nonsampling error that arises because of a failure to include some units or entire sections of the defined survey population in the actual sampling frame.
Nonobservation Error - Nonsampling error that arises because of nonresponse from some elements designated for inclusion in the sample.
Nonparametric Statistics (Distribution-Free) - Methods developed to be used in cases when nothing is known about the parameters of the variable of interest in the population. These methods compare the probability distributions of the sampled populations rather than the specific parameters (such as means or variances).
Nonprobability Sample - Sample that relies on personal judgment somewhere in the element-selection process and therefore prohibits estimating the probability that any population element will be included in the sample.
Nonresponse Error - Nonsampling Error that represents a failure to obtain information from some elements of the population that were selected and designated for the sample.
Nonsampling Errors - Errors that arise in research that are not due to sampling; nonsampling errors can occur because of errors in conception, logic, misinterpretation of replies, statistics, and arithmetic; errors in tabulating or coding; or errors in reporting the results.
Null Hypothesis - States there is no change, effect, difference, or relationship between two variables.