7.2.1 Field Sampling

• A sampling method that uses a square or rectangular frame is called a quadrat
• Why is replication important in field sampling?

  Improves data reliability
• Field sampling requires careful planning to ensure data is representative and reliable


  True
• What is a key advantage of random sampling in field studies?

  Avoids bias
• What is a transect used for in field sampling?

  Studying changes along a gradient
• Quadrats are used to measure species abundance within a defined area.


  True
• Random sampling is a field sampling technique that ensures each location has an equal chance of being selected
• Why is random sampling preferred over transects when studying non-gradient-dependent environments?

  It does not rely on gradients
• Systematic sampling is more efficient than random sampling for large areas.


  True
• Stratified sampling divides the study area into distinct strata
• What environmental characteristic might be used to define strata in stratified sampling?

  Vegetation cover
• Cluster sampling can be combined with stratification for improved accuracy.


  True
• Match the field sampling aspect with its description:

  Sampling Methods ↔️ Techniques like quadrats or transects

  Sampling Design ↔️ Strategy for where and how samples are taken

  Sample Size ↔️ Appropriate number of samples
• Order the steps in stratified sampling:

  1️⃣ Divide the study area into strata

  2️⃣ Identify environmental characteristics for strata

  3️⃣ Conduct random sampling within each stratum
• What is the purpose of using quadrats in field sampling?

  Measure species abundance
• Random sampling provides an unbiased representation of the overall environment.


  True
• Steps in random sampling for a forest ecology study

  1️⃣ Throw a quadrat frame randomly

  2️⃣ Record the species present
• Systematic sampling involves collecting samples at regular, pre-determined intervals
• How does systematic sampling differ from random sampling?

  Structured approach
• Stratified sampling divides the study area into distinct strata
• Match the sampling method with its benefit:

  Random sampling ↔️ Simple, unbiased

  Systematic sampling ↔️ Efficient coverage

  Stratified sampling ↔️ Accurate for diverse areas
• Cluster sampling is more efficient for large or dispersed areas than random sampling.

  True
• Effective data recording in field sampling requires standardized data sheets and clear, unambiguous notation
• What metadata should be recorded during field sampling?

  Location, time, weather
• Match the bias type with its description:

  Selection Bias ↔️ Sample not representative

  Measurement Bias ↔️ Inaccurate instruments

  Information Bias ↔️ Incomplete data
• Regularly calibrating instruments helps reduce measurement bias in field sampling.

  True
• What is field sampling used for in environmental science?

  Data collection from nature
• Systematic sampling is a type of sampling design used in field sampling


  True
• Quadrats, transects, and random sampling are examples of methods
• What is the purpose of a transect in field sampling?

  Study environmental gradients
• Match the sampling method with its description:

  Quadrats ↔️ Quantitative measurements in defined areas

  Transects ↔️ Samples taken along a straight line

  Random sampling ↔️ Unbiased data collection at random locations
• Random sampling is not influenced by any underlying patterns in the environment
• What is determined in the "sampling design" aspect of field sampling?

  Where and how samples are taken
• Random sampling provides an unbiased representation of the overall environment
• Sampling methods in field sampling must be systematic to avoid bias.

  False
• Random sampling eliminates bias in sample location selection.

  True
• Systematic sampling collects samples at regular, pre-determined intervals
• What is a key advantage of systematic sampling when studying areas with suspected patterns?

  Captures the pattern effectively
• Stratified sampling improves accuracy in heterogeneous areas.


  True
• Cluster sampling reduces the time and effort required for sampling in large or dispersed areas