What is meant by accuracy in measurement?

• A. The ability to measure a population parameter without bias
• B. The ability to estimate a population parameter without random error
• C. The ability to consistently reproduce results under the same conditions
• D. The ability to produce results that align with the observer's expectations

Answer: (B)

Accuracy in measurement refers to how close a measured value is to the true value of the parameter being assessed. Therefore, the ability to estimate a population parameter without random error captures this concept effectively. Random error can arise from various sources during data collection and can lead to values that deviate from the true parameter. Eliminating or minimizing this random error enhances the accuracy of the measurement, ensuring that results are reflective of the actual characteristics of the population.

While other concepts mentioned in the choices relate to measurement, they do not accurately represent the specific meaning of accuracy. For instance, the notion of measuring without bias addresses the influence of systematic errors, which is distinct from the randomness of measurement errors. Reproducing results consistently deals more with reliability rather than accuracy, as it centers around obtaining the same outcomes repeatedly rather than hitting the true value. Lastly, aligning results with an observer's expectations touches on subjective interpretation, which does not genuinely pertain to the objective assessment of accuracy in measurement. Thus, the essence of accuracy lies in the elimination of random error to closely approximate the true population parameter.