Sampling

Question 1

what is random sampling ?

Answer 1

you collect data at sites that were chosen randomly where each site had an equal chance of being chosen

Question 2

what is systematic sampling ?

Answer 2

you collect data at a set interval e.g. every 50m

Question 3

what is stratified sampling ?

Answer 3

sampling to ensure representation across different sub-groups.

Question 4

what is opportunity / biased sampling ?

Answer 4

you collect data at places that would benefit you / based on easiness to access.

Question 5

what are the pros and cons of systematic sampling ?

Answer 5

pros - unbiased as it ensures a range of representatives.

cons - you may misrepresent certain subgroups in your data

Question 6

what are the pros and cons of random sampling ?

Answer 6

pros - it is unbiased since no particular people or places are chosen
cons - the data collected may not be representative of the whole population

Question 7

what are the pros and cons of stratified sampling ?

Answer 7

pros - all subgroups in a population are fairly represented

cons - it can be difficult to calculate how to represent each subgroup fairly

Question 8

what are the pros and cons of opportunity / biased sampling ?

Answer 8

pros - you can manipulate data collection to fit your hypothesis and it can be done quickly
cons - it can make data collection inaccurate and bias is a risk