Sampling Methods

Question 1

What are the strengths and weaknesses of random sampling

Answer 1

Strengths: every member has an equal chance of being in a sample weaknesses: there may be a bias as a disproportionate number of people from one demographic may end up in the same group. Small minorities may skew results

Question 2

Strengths and weaknesses of systematic sampling

Answer 2

S: method offers an unbiased chance of gaining a sample W: could still be biased (e.g every 4th may be male)

Question 3

Strengths and weaknesses of stratified sampling

Answer 3

S: avoids misinterpretation as it is random W. Takes time and money

Question 4

What is quota sampling

Answer 4

When your sample has the characterises of the target population (eg. All over 50, blonde..)

Question 5

Strengths and weaknesses of quota sampling

Answer 5

S: it is cheaper as less participants are needed W: harder to eliminate bias as all have similar characteristics

Question 6

Strengths and weakness of snowball sampling

Answer 6

S: it is quicker, more cost effective and can be used to sample hard to reach groups w:there may be a lack of cooperation and sampling bias

Question 7

Strengths and weaknesses of opportunity sampling /purposive

Answer 7

S: it is easy and inexpensive W: subject to bias , not representative of wider pop, may not have desired characterises for target pop, non random , can be time consuming

Question 8

Strengths and weaknesses of volunteer sampling

Answer 8

S: achieves a larger sample size as it reaches a larger audience as can be online W: those who respond may have similar characteristics

Question 9

What is stratified sampling

Answer 9

Different subgroups in the target pop are identified then people are randomly selected from the subgroups in the proportion to their numbers in the target pop