Which term describes the process of identifying patterns within large datasets using statistical and machine learning methods?

The term that describes the process of identifying patterns within large datasets using statistical and machine learning methods is "knowledge discovery and data mining" (KDDM). This process involves analyzing data from different perspectives and summarizing it into useful information, thereby allowing for the extraction of patterns and trends that may not be immediately obvious.

KDDM typically encompasses multiple stages, including data preprocessing, data mining, and the interpretation of the results to derive actionable insights. It applies various algorithms and statistical models to uncover hidden patterns or associations within the data, making it a powerful tool in fields such as health informatics, where large volumes of patient and operational data are analyzed to improve outcomes and optimize processes.

In distinction to the other options, knowledge management refers to the systematic approach to managing, creating, sharing, and utilizing knowledge within an organization, rather than focusing specifically on data patterns. Data analysis, while relevant, is a broader term that could refer to general analytical practices without the specific emphasis on automated pattern discovery. Populational studies typically relate to research designed to understand health outcomes in specific population groups and do not inherently involve the advanced statistical and machine learning methods that characterize KDDM.