Introduction to sampling methods

While researching a group of people, collecting data from every person in that group is virtually impossible. To counter this issue, you choose a sample. The group of individuals partaking in the research comprises the sample. Suppose that you choose a sample properly representing the population. In that case, you can draw valid conclusions about the population using the summarized sample data. Probability sampling and non-probability sampling are the methods used in sampling. Probability sampling includes randomly choosing the units from the population. Therefore, it allows you to draw solid conclusions about the population. In contrast, non-probability sampling provides you with the easiness of data collection due to convenient sampling. Whether you have chosen probability or non-probability sampling, you must elucidate on it in the methodology section of your dissertation or article.

Differentiating between sample and population

It would be best if you differentiated between a population and a sample. Then, you can specify your research’s target population. Note that the population comprises the entire group of interest, and you wish to make generalization about it. Nonetheless, the sample is a mere gathering of a particular group of individuals. You gather data from the sample. 

The population can be vast, and you may wish to make inferences about all the professional athletes worldwide. Else, you may restrict the population to the athletes in a city or a specific country. It is beyond critical that you define the scope of your target population primarily based on your research project. Assume that your population of interest is enormous, demographically concocted, and geographically scattered; you may need more than a representative sample.

What is critical in sampling?

Sample size and the sampling frame are crucial in sampling. The sampling frame should ideally cover the entire target population, implying that nothing or nobody out of that population is included. The sample size is the more critical of the two. It depends on various factors, such as the size and variability of the population and the experimental design you have chosen. Many sample size calculators and formulas exist based on what your objective is with statistical analysis.

1. Probability sampling

Probability sampling suggests that you have the same chance of selecting a member of the population. Quantitative research is the main area utilizing this method of sampling. Assume that you wish to produce repeatable results. In that case, you must resort to probability sampling. It comprises simple random sampling, systematic sampling, stratified sampling, and cluster sampling.

a. Simple random sampling

Each population member has the same probability of being chosen. Thus, your sampling frame covers the whole population. You can easily utilize this technique using random number generators because it entirely depends on the chance.

b. Systematic sampling

This technique is easier to apply. Each population member is assigned a number. Then, you can choose subjects at regular intervals.

c. Stratified sampling

In this method, you divide the population into subpopulations. Subpopulations may have different characteristics. More precise conclusions are possible because the sample has subgroups, which are more representative of the population.

d. Cluster sampling

You also divide the population into subpopulations in this technique. Yet, subpopulations have similar traits. You randomly choose the whole subgroups instead of individual samples. The method is specifically suitable for large samples. However, sample clusters may not represent the actual population. 

2. Non-probability sampling

Individuals are not chosen according to random criteria in this sampling. Therefore, every individual may need to find a chance to be in the study. You can readily access samples. However, the sampling bias risk is substantially higher. This fact leads to the issue of attaining limited conclusions. Suppose you have resorted to non-probability sampling. Still, your objective should include having the representative sample you can obtain. Exploratory and qualitative studies are two areas primarily using non-probability sampling. Remember that this research type does not necessarily test a hypothesis. Instead, the researcher wishes to get a feel of a small or under-studied population. The non-probability sampling covers convenience, voluntary response, purposive, and snowball sampling.

a. Convenience sampling

A convenience sample comprises individuals the researcher can readily access. Even though it is an easy and inexpensive way to collect initial data, you cannot guarantee the representativeness of the population, not allowing you to generalize results.

b. Voluntary response sampling

A voluntary response sample can also involve ease of sample access. The researcher does not choose participants and contact them. In contrast, participants volunteer for the study. This sample usually is biased to a certain extent because some people innately have the characteristics of volunteering.

c. Purposive sampling

The researcher uses their expertise to choose a sample serving the purposes of the research most. Qualitative research may involve this type of sampling. A beneficial purposive sample should possess clear criteria and rationale for inclusion. Therefore, defining your inclusion and exclusion criteria is a must.

d. Snowball sampling

Assume that the population you wish to access is not readily available. With snowball sampling, you can recruit participants with the assistance of other participants.

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This article explains the difference between study population and sample and sampling methods for a dissertation. To give you an opportunity to practice proofreading, we have left a few spelling, punctuation, or grammatical errors in the text. See if you can spot them! If you spot the errors correctly, you will be entitled to a 10% discount.