What term describes the extent to which research findings based on a sample can be applied to the entire population?

The term that describes the extent to which research findings based on a sample can be applied to the entire population is generalizability. This concept is central to research, as it helps researchers determine whether the results obtained from a particular sample hold true for a larger group. A study with high generalizability means that the conclusions drawn are likely applicable to individuals outside of the sample used, effectively broadening the implications of the research findings.

In contrast, validity refers to whether a study accurately measures what it intends to measure, reliability pertains to the consistency of a measure over time or across different observers, and statistical significance relates to the likelihood that a result or relationship is not due to chance. While these concepts are essential for conducting sound research, they do not specifically address the applicability of findings from a sample to the broader population like generalizability does.