What term refers to errors occurring during survey activities that are not related to sampling?

The term that refers to errors occurring during survey activities that are not related to sampling is non-sampling errors. These can arise from various sources, including issues related to the design of the survey, the way questions are phrased, the methods of data collection, and even the interpretation of responses. Unlike sampling errors, which occur due to the methodology of selecting a sample from a population, non-sampling errors can affect the validity and reliability of the survey results in several ways.

Non-sampling errors encompass a range of problems, such as measurement errors where respondents might misinterpret questions or provide inaccurate responses. They can also include errors related to data processing, where information is misrecorded or analyzed incorrectly. These errors can lead to biases that distort the findings of the survey, making it crucial for researchers to identify and mitigate such issues to ensure the quality of their data.

The other terms relate to different types of errors. Sampling errors specifically deal with the discrepancies that arise when making inferences about a population based on a sample. Random errors refer to fluctuations that occur due to chance, which are generally unpredictable and can arise from various sources. Measurement errors focus specifically on inaccuracies in the data collection process. Understanding these distinctions is vital for effective survey design and data analysis