Error in data acquisition
Also called: Recording error, Measurement error · Topic: Economic Data: Census, NSS, Surveys and Statistical Tools · NCERT: Class 11, Ch 2 "Collection of Data"; Class 11, Ch 8 "Use of Statistical Tools"
Meaning
Error in data acquisition happens when wrong figures are recorded while collecting data. It can come from differences in measurement, prices that vary, informants who forget (recall lapses) or slips when copying figures (transcription). It is a non-sampling error. That means a bigger sample does not remove it, and even a census has it.
Example
Several students measure the same table with different tapes and get different lengths. Orange prices vary by shop, market and quality, so only an average price can be recorded. A figure of 31 may be copied down as 13. Built-in checks in CAPI (Computer Assisted Personal Interviewing, i.e. surveys on tablets) help catch such copying slips.
Don't confuse with
- Sampling error: this comes from studying only a part of the population, and it shrinks as the sample grows. Recording errors do not shrink with a bigger sample.