Sampling

• There are 5 types of sampling used in psychology research:

  • Random
  • Stratified
  • Voluntary
  • Systematic
  • Oppurtunity
• Random Sampling

  Participants are randomly chose and everyone has an equal chance at being selected. Free from researcher bias but may lead to a volunteer sample as some people may chose not to participate.
• Systematic Sampling

  Participants are chosen by selecting every nth number in a list. Free from researcher bias and is fairly representative as it is unlikely to produce an all male sample. However, it can result in a volunteer sample because people may choose not to participate.
• Stratified Sampling

  A proportionate representation of everyone in the population including sub-groups. It is free from researcher bias and representative of the population which means it can be generalised to wider populations. However, it may lead to a volunteer sample as some participants may choose not to participate.
• Opportunity Sampling

  Participants are chosen at random based on convenience and availability. It is easy and convenient, however may involve researcher bias and lack representation, meaning that results can't be generalised.
• Voluntary Sampling

  Participants chose to participate in the survey. It is easy and convenient however may lead to volunteer bias and therefore lack of representation meaning that results cannot be generalised