In the experiment you've described, there are two important concepts: random selection and random assignment.
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Random Selection: This occurs when participants are chosen from a larger population in a way that each individual has an equal chance of being selected. In your scenario, the 400 adults who already exercise regularly are randomly chosen to participate in the study. This step ensures that the sample is representative of the larger population of regular exercisers.
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Random Assignment: This happens after participants have been selected and involves assigning them to different groups (e.g., experimental and control groups) in a way that is random. In your case, when it mentions that participants are divided randomly into two groups, this is the point of random assignment. The random division ensures that the groups are comparable and minimizes any potential biases, allowing researchers to make causal inferences based on the outcomes measured (happiness ratings).
In summary:
- Random selection happens when 400 adults are chosen to participate in the study.
- Random assignment occurs when those selected participants are randomly divided into the inside exercise group and the outside group.