sampling Flashcards
Define random sampling.
A sampling technique where every member of the target population has an equal chance of being selected.
Give one strength of random sampling.
Reduces researcher bias as selection is not influenced by personal judgment.
Give one weakness of random sampling.
Difficult to achieve as it requires a complete list of the target population.
Define systematic sampling.
A sampling technique where every nth person from a list is selected.
Give one strength of systematic sampling.
Avoids researcher bias as selection follows an objective system.
Give one weakness of systematic sampling.
Still not truly random as the starting point may influence selection.
Define stratified sampling.
A sampling technique where the population is divided into strata (subgroups) and participants are randomly selected in proportion to their occurrence in the population.
Give one strength of stratified sampling.
Increases representativeness by ensuring all subgroups are proportionally represented.
Give one weakness of stratified sampling.
Time-consuming as it requires detailed knowledge of population characteristics.
Define opportunity sampling.
A sampling technique where participants are chosen based on availability and willingness.
Give one strength of opportunity sampling.
Quick, convenient, and cost-effective.
Give one weakness of opportunity sampling.
Prone to bias as participants may not be representative of the target population.
Define volunteer sampling.
A sampling technique where participants self-select by responding to an advert or request.
Give one strength of volunteer sampling.
Ethically sound as participants give full consent to take part.
Give one weakness of volunteer sampling.
Prone to volunteer bias, as only certain types of people (e.g., highly motivated) are likely to respond.
