AQA GCSE · Question 06.8 · Data Collection and Sampling Methods
Give a reason why Tom should also find opinions of people where HS2 will not have a station.
How to approach this question
Tom's current sampling plan focuses on stations linked by HS2. Think about who is being left out. Why might their opinions be important for a balanced view?
Full Answer
To get a more representative view of the whole country. People not directly served by HS2 may still have strong opinions (e.g., about the cost to the taxpayer, or environmental impact) that could be different from those who will benefit from the new stations.
To test his hypothesis about what "most people" think, Tom needs a sample that is representative of the entire population, not just those who live near or use the new HS2 stations. People in areas not served by HS2 are still affected by the project through its national cost (funded by taxes) and widespread environmental impact. Their opinions are crucial for a balanced and valid conclusion. They may be more likely to be against it as they perceive fewer direct benefits, so excluding them would likely bias the results in favour of HS2.
Common mistakes
✗ Saying "to make it fair" without explaining why it would be more representative or less biased.
Expert