Module #5: Sampling Designs Flashcards
Define what the Target Population is.
The target (ideal population) is the entire group of individuals that the researcher wants to research.
Define what the Accessible Population is.
The accessible (realistic) population, also known as the “sample frame” is the population that is realistically accessible to the researcher
Define what the sample is.
The sample is the final portion of the population that became accessible as participants in the research
What does it mean for a sample to be representative?
In quantitative designs (including survey research) this refers to the ability for the smaller sample to be representative or generalizable to our larger target population.
What are the two main categories of sampling? Which sample type falls under each type?
Probability Sampling (random) and Non Probability Sampling (non random).
Probability Sampling (Simple Random Sampling, Stratified Sampling, Cluster Sampling)
Non Probability (Snowball, Purposive, and Convenience)
Describe Simple Random Sampling.
Example.
Each member of the population has an equal and independent chance of being selected.
Describe Stratified Random Sampling.
Example.
Members are randomly selected from certain subgroups (or strata) as they exist in the population.
Describe Cluster Random Sampling.
Example.
Random selection of entire groups of participants rather than of individuals
Describe Systemic Sampling.
What would make this a probability sample?
Example.
Sampling of every Nth individual is selected from a list.
If the selection process or the list of the population is randomly ordered, than it can be considered a probability sample.
Describe Convenience Sampling
Example.
Selected non randomly from the target population; whoever happens to be available.
Describe Snowball Sampling
Example.
A small group of participants are selected an are asked to refer others to participate.
Describe Purposive Sampling
Example.
Participants are selected and screened for specific characteristics before being included in the sample; they are selected based on the belief that they are representative of the population.
