23 Questions
What is the main purpose of sampling in research?
To cut the population down to a manageable size for research
Which term refers to all individuals (or lab specimen) in which we may be interested and to which we want the study results to extrapolate to?
Population
What is the aim of ensuring the sample is representative of the population?
To ensure the sample reflects the diversity of the population
In research, what does 'cutting the population down to a manageable and representative size' refer to?
Collecting data from a subset of the population
What is the subset of the population that we are able to study called?
Sample
Which stage of research involves identifying appropriate methods to conduct the research?
Sampling
Which sampling method is used to recruit participants from a small, inaccessible population or those who are difficult to identify in large numbers?
Snowball sampling
What is a disadvantage of snowball sampling?
Subjective selection process
What is the main difference between purposive sampling and convenience sampling?
Selection based on theoretical rationale
What type of bias occurs when there is a systematic tendency to include/exclude individuals or certain groups in the sample?
Selection bias
In which type of bias is there a significant difference between those who participated and those who did not participate in a study?
Non-response bias
What is the purpose of systematic sampling?
To select every nth member from the population
What refers to unexpected, systematic variation in research findings?
Bias
Which method involves random selection of samples, such as simple random sampling, systematic sampling, stratified random sampling, and cluster sampling?
Probability sampling
What is the simplest method of sampling with each unit having an equal chance of being selected?
Simple random sampling
Which method involves the selection of every nth unit and requires a complete list of the population?
Systematic sampling
What divides the population into subgroups and ensures consistent distribution with the population?
Stratified random sampling
When is non-probability sampling useful?
When a truly random sample is not possible
What is convenience sampling based on?
Availability
What does MHRA require for assessing the quality of medicinal products on the market?
Sampling plans
Why is sample size estimation important?
To ensure generalizability of results and allocation of resources.
What type of studies may require larger sample sizes due to higher dropout rates?
Longitudinal studies
Which method involves smaller sample sizes for research?
Cross-over designs
Study Notes
- Sampling and bias are crucial aspects to consider when appraising quantitative studies.
- Bias refers to unexpected, systematic variation in research findings, which can lead to estimates above or below the population value.
- Regulatory authorities, such as the MHRA, require sampling plans to assess the quality of medicinal products on the market.
- Pharmaceutical companies may want to check dose uniformity of a powder mixture (API + excipients) by sampling the blend.
- Sample size estimation is important to ensure generalizability of results, allocate resources, and ensure detection of effects.
- Cross-over designs require smaller sample sizes, while longitudinal studies may require larger ones due to higher dropout rates.
- Probability sampling aims for objectivity and involves random selection of samples, e.g., simple random sampling, systematic sampling, stratified random sampling, and cluster sampling.
- Simple random sampling is the simplest method, with each unit having an equal chance of being selected.
- Systematic sampling involves selection of every nth unit and requires a complete list of the population.
- Stratified random sampling divides the population into subgroups and ensures consistent distribution with the population.
- Cluster sampling divides the population into clusters and selects clusters randomly.
- Non-probability sampling is useful when a truly random sample is not possible.
- Convenience sampling is selected based on availability, while quota sampling is a form of stratified sampling with non-random selection.
Test your knowledge on research methods, sampling techniques, and data analysis. Explore the definition of terms such as sample, population, and sampling, as well as types of sampling bias. Understand the stages of research, from identifying the need for research to writing a research report.
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