Sampling

• What is a sample in research?

  A smaller sub-group drawn from a wider group
• Why is it important for a sample to be representative?

  It allows generalization of findings to the whole group
• How can findings from a sample be applied to the whole group?

  If the sample accurately reflects the group
• What is the significance of having a range of data in research?

  It enhances the reliability and validity of findings
• What is the target population in research?

  • The whole group that you want to study
• What is a sampling frame?

  • A list of individual sampling units
  • Example: electoral roll
• What is a complete sampling frame?

  It covers all the population concerned
• What is a limitation of using a telephone directory as a sampling frame?

  It may have duplications of individuals
• Why might members of a football team's supporters club not represent all fans?

  They may not include casual fans or non-members
• What issues could arise from using the electoral register as a sampling frame?

  It may not include certain eligible voters
• What are the five factors for a good sampling frame?

  1. Complete
  2. Without duplications
  3. Accurate
  4. Up to date
  5. All in one place
• What are the different sampling methods?

  1. Random Sampling
  2. Stratified Random Sampling
  3. Quota Sampling
  4. Opportunity Sampling
  5. Snowball Sampling
  6. Purposive Sampling
• What is the strength of random sampling?

  Everyone has an equal chance of being selected
• What is a limitation of stratified sampling?

  It requires detailed information about the population
• What is quota sampling?

  The researcher decides numbers from different categories
• Why might opportunity sampling be convenient?

  It is quick and easy to conduct
• What is purposive sampling?

  Choosing a specific group for a study
• What is a potential issue with snowball sampling?

  It may not yield a diverse sample
• What is the main advantage of opportunity sampling?

  It is cost-effective and convenient
• What are the strengths and weaknesses of different sampling methods?

  Strengths:

  • Random sampling: Equal chance for all
  • Stratified sampling: Reflects population diversity
  • Quota sampling: Easier to find participants

  
  

  Weaknesses:

  • Random sampling: May not be fully representative
  • Stratified sampling: Requires detailed population info
  • Opportunity sampling: May not generalize results
• What should a parts sample allow the researcher to do?

  Generalise findings to a larger population
• What may a non-representative sample produce?

  Biased results
• What can an inaccurate sampling frame lead to?

  An unbalanced sample and inaccurate results
• What are the issues with non-representative sampling?

  • Not inclusive; not everyone sees results
  • Participants may not be willing to give access
  • Practical issues: time-saving with unbalanced samples
  • Theoretical issues: high levels of validity
  • Allows building of Verstehen
• What is one advantage of using opportunity sampling?

  It is quick and easy
• What sampling frame did Young & Wilmott use?

  Electoral register
• What is a disadvantage of quota sampling?

  It is not really representative
• What is the difference between random and stratified sampling methods?

  Random gives equal chance; stratified splits groups
• What are the practical and theoretical issues with non-representative sampling?

  Practical Issues:

  • Not inclusive; limited access to results
  • Participants may be unwilling to provide access

  
  

  Theoretical Issues:

  • High levels of validity
  • Allows for building Verstehen