Research methods; Sampling

Question 1

Sampling Technique:

Answer 1

Methods used to select participants from a population to take part in research.

Question 2

Bias:

Answer 2

When certain groups are over or under-represented within the sample selected.

Question 3

Generalisability:

Answer 3

The extent to which findings and conclusions from an investigation can be broadly applied to the population. So, participants need to be representative of the target population.

Question 4

Random Sampling

Answer 4

Every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected, the researcher must
use a method of random selection and enter all the names of those in the population to ensure
this.

Question 5

Systematic Sampling

Answer 5

Selecting every nth member of the population. It differs from random sampling in that it does
not give an equal chance of selection to each individual in the target group.

Question 6

Stratified Sampling

Answer 6

Dividing the population into subgroups (strata) based on a characteristic, then randomly
sampling (using a similar method of random selection in random sampling) from each subgroup
proportionally.

Question 7

Opportunity Sampling

Answer 7

Participants who are both accessible and willing to take part are targeted.

Question 8

Volunteer Sampling

Answer 8

Individuals self-select to be part of the study.

Question 9

Population

Answer 9

The entire group of individuals or instances about whom the research is concerned. For example, if a study is about college students, the population includes all college students.

Question 10

Sample

Answer 10

A smaller group selected from the population, which is used to represent the larger group. Researchers study the sample and generalise findings to the population e.g. studying students at this college only but using the results as a representation of all students.