
The number of clusters identified from data by algorithm is represented by ‘K’ in K-means. It is also called flat clustering algorithm. It assumes that the number of clusters are already known. K-means clustering algorithm computes the centroids and iterates until we it finds optimal centroid.
#Analyzing cluster search prodiscover basic generator
SampleYou assign a number to each school and use a random number generator to select a random sample. If each cluster is itself a mini-representation of the larger population, randomly selecting and sampling from the clusters allows you to imitate simple random sampling, which in turn supports the validity of your results.Ĭonversely, if the clusters are not representative, then random sampling will allow you to gather data on a diverse array of clusters, which should still provide you with an overview of the population as a whole. Step 3: Randomly select clusters to use as your sample There is no overlap because each student attends only one school. To cover the whole population, you need to include every school in the city. You should be aware of this when performing your study, as it might affect its validity.ĬlustersYou cluster the seventh-graders by the school they attend. However, in practice, clusters often do not perfectly represent the population’s characteristics, which is why this method provides less statistical certainty than simple random sampling.īecause clusters are usually naturally occurring groups, such as schools, cities, or households, they are often more homogenous than the population as a whole. Ideally, each cluster should be a mini-representation of the entire population. the same people or units do not appear in more than one cluster). There not be any overlap between clusters (i.e.Taken together, the clusters should cover the entire population.Each cluster should have a similar distribution of characteristics as the distribution of the population as a whole.

You want every potential characteristic of the entire population to be represented in each cluster.


It would be very difficult to obtain a list of all seventh-graders and collect data from a random sample spread across the city. Research exampleYou are interested in the average reading level of all the seventh-graders in your city. The simplest form of cluster sampling is single-stage cluster sampling. Frequently asked questions about cluster sampling.Probability vs non-probability sampling.
