Sampling Methods and Population Parameters

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary consideration for defining the target population for the Metro U Dining Club?

The likely patrons for the new venture (correct)

The food preferences of the faculty

The availability of dining options in the neighborhood

The total student enrollment at Metro U

Which of the following best describes sample statistics?

They summarize data collected from the entire target market.

They provide insight into population parameters derived from sample data. (correct)

They measure characteristics of individuals in the target population.

They are estimators of population parameters based on entire population data.

What type of data is used to measure the proportion of students/employees expressing interest in the dining club?

Ratio data

Interval data

Nominal data (correct)

Ordinal data

Which of the following data levels is represented by the frequency of eating on or near campus in the last 30 days?

Ratio and ordinal data Signup and view all the answers

How does the choice of population parameters affect data collection in research?

It dictates the sample type and size. Signup and view all the answers

Which data type is exemplified by the respondent type, such as faculty, staff, or student?

Nominal Signup and view all the answers

What is indicated by the interval data regarding student spending per visit?

It indicates a range of spending amounts. Signup and view all the answers

What aspect of data collection is influenced by how measurement scales are set?

The characteristics and properties of the collected data Signup and view all the answers

What is one of the main sources of error related to research, according to Deming?

Non-sampling error Signup and view all the answers

Which factor does NOT influence the size of a probability sample?

Population's demographic characteristics Signup and view all the answers

Which statement about sample size in research is TRUE?

Higher desired precision requires a larger sample size. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of probability sampling?

Respondents are randomly selected to participate. Signup and view all the answers

What misconception exists regarding sample representation?

A sample must always be large to be representative. Signup and view all the answers

Which statement best describes non-probability sampling?

It often relies on the researchers' judgment and convenience. Signup and view all the answers

How does the number of subgroups of interest affect sample size?

Each subgroup must meet minimum sample size requirements. Signup and view all the answers

What is the role of budgetary constraints in sample selection?

They can encourage the use of a non-probability sample. Signup and view all the answers

What is a defining characteristic of probability sampling?

Each person in the population has an equal chance of being selected. Signup and view all the answers

Which type of sampling requires researchers to know the probability of selection for each individual?

Probability sampling Signup and view all the answers

In systematic sampling, how are individuals typically selected?

At random intervals from a numbered list. Signup and view all the answers

What is a key advantage of stratified sampling?

It ensures selection from each subgroup to accurately reflect the population. Signup and view all the answers

During which stage of research is non-probability sampling commonly used?

Exploratory phase Signup and view all the answers

An example of simple random sampling involves which of the following methods?

Assigning random numbers to employees and selecting them based on generated numbers. Signup and view all the answers

If a company's employee distribution is 800 females and 200 males, which sampling method would best represent this gender balance?

Stratified sampling based on gender characteristics Signup and view all the answers

What type of sampling is characterized by its reliance on a non-random selection process?

Convenience sampling Signup and view all the answers

What is the main characteristic of cluster sampling?

It involves selecting entire subgroups from the population. Signup and view all the answers

What is a potential drawback of convenience sampling?

It often results in a sample that is not representative. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following accurately describes voluntary response sampling?

Participants actively choose to respond to an invitation. Signup and view all the answers

In cluster sampling, what occurs if the clusters are large?

Additional random sub-sampling is performed within selected clusters. Signup and view all the answers

What type of sample is generated when a researcher selects people who are the most accessible?

Convenience sampling. Signup and view all the answers

Why are voluntary response samples often biased?

Only individuals with strong opinions may decide to participate. Signup and view all the answers

What defines purposive sampling?

The researcher selects participants using their expertise. Signup and view all the answers

When conducting research across multiple locations, what benefit does cluster sampling offer?

It simplifies data collection by allowing entire groups to be sampled. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of purposive sampling in qualitative research?

To gain detailed knowledge about a specific phenomenon Signup and view all the answers

Which statement regarding snowball sampling is accurate?

It relies on participants to recruit others for the study. Signup and view all the answers

In quota sampling, what is primarily determined by the researcher?

The specific characteristics of groups to be included Signup and view all the answers

What is a key disadvantage of snowball sampling?

The sample is often biased and may not be representative. Signup and view all the answers

How does purposive sampling differ from simple random sampling?

Purposive sampling focuses on specific criteria rather than randomness. Signup and view all the answers

What is the main focus of quota sampling?

To gather a pre-specified number from certain subgroups. Signup and view all the answers

When is simple random sampling most commonly applied?

In feasibility studies to identify target respondents. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following describes an important aspect of purposive sampling?

It must include a rationale for participant inclusion. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Population Parameters

Target population represents the potential customers for the proposed product or service.
Population parameters are summary descriptors of variables of interest in the population.
Sample statistics are descriptors of those same relevant variables computed from sample data.
Different data scales are used for different population parameters.

Sampling Method

Probability Sampling: respondents are randomly selected. Each person has an equal chance of being selected.
- Simple Random Sampling: every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected.
- Systematic Sampling: individuals are chosen at regular intervals from a numbered list.
- Stratified Sampling: the population is divided into subgroups based on relevant characteristics. A random sample is then selected from each subgroup.
- Cluster Sampling: the population is divided into clusters. Entire clusters are randomly selected.
Non-Probability Sampling: respondents are not randomly selected.
- Convenience Sampling: includes the individuals who are most accessible to the researcher.
- Voluntary Response Sampling: participants voluntarily participate in the research.
- Purposive Sampling: the researcher selects individuals based on their expertise or knowledge on the topic.
- Snowball Sampling: participants recruit other participants.
- Quota Sampling: the researcher selects a predetermined number of units from each subgroup.
Feasibility studies commonly use simple random sampling.

Sample Size

The size of the sample depends on factors such as the variation in the population parameters, desired precision, error range, confidence level, and number of subgroups.
The greater the variation in the population parameters, the larger the sample size needed.
The greater the desired precision, the larger the sample size needed.
The smaller the error range, the larger the sample size needed.
The higher the confidence level, the larger the sample size needed.
Budget considerations influence decisions about the size and type of sample.

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Description

This quiz covers key concepts related to population parameters and various sampling methods used in research. It explains different types of probability and non-probability sampling techniques, including simple random, systematic, stratified, and cluster sampling. Test your understanding of these essential research principles!