a process for collecting data on a sample of observations which are selected from the population of interest using a probability-based sample design

a way of collecting information on a subset of the elements of the target population with the intention of using the information to determine summary characteristics about the population

Every four out of five years, the R&D expenditures survey is conducted as a sample survey where only 25 percent of institutions in the probability category and all institutions in the certainty category are surveyed (as opposed to a full population survey which is conducted every fifth year and all institutions in the certainty and probability categories are surveyed). Data for institutions not sampled during a sample survey year are estimated through imputation.

A cross sectional study in which the sample is selected to be representative of the target population and in which the emphasis is on the generation of summary statistics such as averages and percentages.

A data collection which collects data from a subset of units in the population being studied.

A survey in which only a sample or part of the population is studied.