Sampling

• What is a population in research?

  A group of people of interest
• What is a sample in research?

  A group of people participating in research
• How is a sample drawn from a population?

  It is presumed to be representative
• Why should a sample be representative of the target population?

  To ensure accurate research findings
• What does generalisability refer to in research?

  The extent to apply findings to the population
• What are the 5 types of sampling methods?

  • Random Sampling
  • Systematic Sampling
  • Stratified Sampling
  • Opportunity Sampling
  • Volunteer Sampling
• What is random sampling?

  All members have an equal chance of selection
• What are the strengths of random sampling?

  It is unbiased and equal chance for all
• What are the limitations of random sampling?

  It is time-consuming and requires a complete list
• How can random sampling be conducted?

  Use a random number generator after listing members
• What is systematic sampling?

  Every nth term is selected from an organized list
• What are the strengths of systematic sampling?

  It is unbiased and uses an objective system
• What are the limitations of systematic sampling?

  It is not truly random without a random start
• What is stratified sampling?

  Sample reflects proportions of subgroups in population
• What are the strengths of stratified sampling?

  It provides a representative sample of subgroups
• What are the limitations of stratified sampling?

  It is time-consuming and requires subgroup identification
• What is opportunity sampling?

  Selecting anyone who is willing and available
• What are the strengths of opportunity sampling?

  It is cost-effective and time-efficient
• What are the limitations of opportunity sampling?

  It is biased and lacks variation
• What is volunteer sampling?

  Participants select themselves to join the study
• What are the strengths of volunteer sampling?

  It is representative and less biased
• What are the limitations of volunteer sampling?

  It is biased due to self-selection
• How can a volunteer sample be conducted?

  Place an advert or ask for volunteers
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of different sampling methods?

  Strengths:

  • Random Sampling: Unbiased, equal chance
  • Systematic Sampling: Unbiased, objective selection
  • Stratified Sampling: Representative of subgroups
  • Opportunity Sampling: Cost-effective, time-efficient
  • Volunteer Sampling: Access to diverse participants

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Random Sampling: Time-consuming, requires complete list
  • Systematic Sampling: Not truly random
  • Stratified Sampling: Time-consuming, subgroup identification needed
  • Opportunity Sampling: Biased, limited variation
  • Volunteer Sampling: Biased, volunteer motivation issues