Research methods - Sampling

Question 1

Sample

Answer 1

• Group of people who take part in a research investigation
• Sample drawn from target population
• Stands fairly for the population being studied

Question 2

Random sample

Answer 2

• Researcher randomly selecting people for an investigation
• Equal chance of selection
• Example, using a computer to randomly generate names

Question 3

Systematic sample

Answer 3

• Selecting every nth person from a list of names

- Example, choosing every 3rd person from a list

Question 4

Stratified sample

Answer 4

• Sampling method where the total population is split into subgroups or strata to complete the sampling process
• The subgroups are formed based on common characteristics with in the population

Question 5

Opportunity sample

Answer 5

• In cases that samples of target population are difficult to obtain
• Researchers select anyone they can find or who is willing

Question 6

Volunteer sample

Answer 6

• People that willingly select themselves to be part of an investigation
• People can see adverts placed by researcher stating that volunteers are needed