random assignment

assignment [ah-sīn´ment]

the selection of something for a specific purpose.

random assignment in a research study, the assignment of subjects to experimental (treatment) or control groups in such a way that each member of a sample has an equal chance of being assigned to a particular group. Random assignment ensures that the groups will be as alike as possible at the beginning of the study. Called also randomization.

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random assignment,

n a method of allotting membership in research groups that tends to factor out any confounding variables so that any remaining differences can be attributed to the variable being researched.

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random

unplanned, without direction or purpose.

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random assignment

see randomization.

random mating

where each member of the population has an equal opportunity of mating with every member of the opposite sex.

random numbers

a list of numbers obtained by a standard randomization procedure; used commonly to select individual animals from a pack.

random sample

see random sample.

random sampling

a procedure for selecting units from a group in such a way that each unit has an equal chance of being selected in the sample.

random selection

selection in such a way as to produce a random sample.

random variable

a group or quantity that takes various values, each with varying probabilities.