What term refers to a specified group of people or objects for data collection?

The term "target population" refers to the specified group of people or objects that researchers aim to gather data from in a study. This group represents the larger population from which the sample is drawn, and it is critical for ensuring that the findings of the research are relevant and applicable to the entire population. Defining a target population is a foundational step in the research process, as it helps in establishing the scope and focus of the study.

In contrast to the target population, a control group is often used in experiments to compare against the experimental group and evaluate the effect of an intervention. The sample population typically refers to a subset of the target population selected for the actual data collection, but it is not the same as the target population itself. Lastly, an experimental group refers specifically to the group that receives the treatment or intervention being studied, making it distinct from the target population as well. Thus, the correct choice captures the essence of identifying the group from which data will be collected.