Sampling Methods: Probability vs Non-Probability

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Questions and Answers

What is the primary goal of probability sampling methods?

  • To ensure every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected. (correct)
  • To gather in-depth qualitative data.
  • To save time and resources during the sampling process.
  • To select participants based on their availability.

Which of the following is a characteristic of non-probability sampling?

  • Random selection of participants.
  • Selection based on specific criteria or convenience. (correct)
  • Equal chance of selection for all population members.
  • Use of statistical inference.

In which scenario would stratified sampling be most appropriate?

  • When the population is homogeneous and easily accessible.
  • When quick and easy data collection is required.
  • When subgroups within a population have distinct characteristics that need to be represented. (correct)
  • When the researcher wants to ensure every member of the population has an equal chance of selection.

What differentiates cluster sampling from stratified sampling?

<p>Cluster sampling randomly selects entire groups, while stratified sampling randomly selects individuals from each group. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

If a researcher is interviewing experts on a specific medical condition, which sampling method are they most likely using?

<p>Purposive sampling (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does quota sampling resemble stratified sampling?

<p>Both methods aim to match the proportions of certain characteristics in the sample to the population. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a key characteristic of snowball sampling?

<p>Existing participants recruit future participants from their network. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When is convenience sampling most often used?

<p>When time and resources are limited. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which sampling method is generally preferred for quantitative research aiming for generalizability?

<p>Probability sampling (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Why should non-probability sampling results be interpreted with caution?

<p>Because there is a potential for bias. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does simple random sampling ensure minimal bias?

<p>By giving each member of the population an equal chance of being selected. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

When might a researcher opt for cluster sampling over simple random sampling?

<p>When the researcher needs to survey individuals across a wide geographic area and accessing the entire population is challenging. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary advantage of using stratified sampling over simple random sampling when subpopulations vary significantly?

<p>Stratified sampling guarantees proportional representation of all subgroups, improving accuracy. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Which type of research question is best addressed using purposive sampling?

<p>Exploring the experiences of experts in a specific field. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does the lack of random selection in quota sampling affect the generalizability of findings?

<p>It limits the generalizability of findings due to potential selection bias. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

In what situations is snowball sampling particularly useful?

<p>When studying sensitive topics or accessing hidden populations. (D)</p> Signup and view all the answers

What is a primary drawback of convenience sampling?

<p>It might not accurately represent the entire population. (A)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How do research objectives influence the determination of the appropriate sampling method?

<p>Research objectives specify acceptable risks and required result precision which dictate design of the sampling methodology. (B)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How does sampling influence the ultimate usefulness of researched outcomes?

<p>Improper or skewed sampling jeopardizes result credibility by making generalized extrapolation risky. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

How should we use results from non-probability sampling in practice?

<p>We should see them as potentially indicative but needing independent validation because bias exists. (C)</p> Signup and view all the answers

Flashcards

Probability Sampling

Every population member has an equal chance of selection, minimizing bias for statistical inference.

Non-Probability Sampling

Selection is based on specific criteria or convenience, used when probability sampling is unfeasible or for qualitative research.

Simple Random Sampling

Each population member has an equal chance of being selected.

Stratified Sampling

Divide the population into subgroups (strata) based on characteristics and sample randomly from each.

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Cluster Sampling

Divide the population into clusters and randomly select clusters.

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Purposive Sampling

Select participants based on specific criteria or expertise.

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Quota Sampling

Participants are selected to match population proportions of certain characteristics.

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Snowball Sampling

Existing participants recruit future participants from their network.

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Convenience Sampling

Participants are selected based on availability and willingness to participate.

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Sampling

A critical aspect influencing the validity and generalizability of findings.

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Study Notes

Introduction to Sampling Methods

  • Sampling methods involve selecting a subset (sample) from a larger group (population)
  • The key differences between probability and non-probability sampling methods are explored

Probability Sampling

  • Relies on random selection, ensuring every member of the population has an equal chance of being chosen
  • Minimizes bias
  • Allows for statistical inference

Non-Probability Sampling

  • Used when probability sampling isn't feasible or when the goal is qualitative research
  • Involves selecting participants based on specific criteria or convenience

Simple Random Sampling

  • Each population member has an equal chance of selection
  • Random number generators or lottery methods are used to select participants
  • Example: Assigning numbers to students in a school and randomly selecting numbers for a survey

Stratified Sampling

  • Involves dividing the population into subgroups (strata) based on relevant characteristics such as age, gender, income, grade level, or academic strand
  • Random samples are then taken from each stratum
  • Example: Dividing a city into income brackets and randomly surveying households from each bracket

Cluster Sampling

  • The population is divided into clusters such as schools or neighborhoods
  • Clusters are randomly selected
  • All units within the selected clusters are included in the sample
  • Example: Randomly selecting several schools within a state and surveying all students in chosen schools

Purposive Sampling

  • Participants are selected based on specific criteria or characteristics
  • Researchers use judgment to select individuals with relevant expertise or experience
  • Example: Interviewing experts on a particular topic or selecting participants with a specific medical condition

Quota Sampling

  • Participants are selected to match the proportions of certain characteristics in the population
  • Is similar to stratified sampling
  • Does not use random selection
  • Example: Ensuring a sample reflects the gender and age distribution of a city by setting quotas

Snowball Sampling

  • Participants are identified through referral from existing participants
  • Existing participants recruit future participants from their networks

Convenience Sampling

  • Participants are selected based on availability and willingness to participate
  • Often used when time and resources are limited
  • Example: Surveying customers at a mall or asking for volunteers in a class

Choosing a Sampling Method

  • Consider research objectives, population characteristics, available resources, and desired accuracy when choosing a sampling method
  • Probability sampling is preferred for quantitative research aiming for generalizability
  • Non-probability sampling is used in qualitative research or when probability sampling is not feasible

Key Takeaways

  • Sampling is a critical aspect of research, impacting the validity and generalizability of findings
  • Probability sampling minimizes bias and enables statistical inference, suitable for quantitative studies
  • Non-probability sampling is useful for exploratory research, but results should be interpreted with caution due to potential bias

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