Sampling Methods Flashcards
Why is it important that a sample is representative of the target population
We can then generalise the findings of the study to the target population
What is opportunity sampling
Using people who are readily available and who match the target population
What is random sampling
The names of all members of a target population are entered into a computer programme which will then randomly select name until the desired number have been selected.
What is Snowball sampling
The researcher begins with one participant and then asks them to invite other participants and then so on and so on. This is generally used if target population is difficult to contact.
What is self-selecting / volunteer sampling
An advert with contact details is posted or handed out. People who are interested then reply and the psychologist filters the responses to collet a sample that reflects the target population.
What is the advantage of opportunity sampling
It’s the easiest and quickest way to get participants as you use people you already have access to therefore it’s the least costly and most efficient
What is the disadvantage of opportunity sampling
It may not be representative and often from the researchers own social group therefore limits the generalisability
What is the advantage of random sampling
It’s the least biased method as the target population have equal chance of being selected therefore the results are more generalisable
What is the disadvantage random sampling
It can be very difficult to conduct as you need access to information about all members of the target population. Therefore not useful to all studies and can often only be used on small target populations.
What is the advantage of snowball sampling
Relatively easy to obtain as you only need to find the first few. Therefore it’s convenient to find a particular kind of participant.
What is the disadvantage of snowball sampling
Non-representative sample as they may be similar in ways other than what is needed for the study. Therefore limiting the generalisability.
What is the advantage of volunteer/self selected sampling
Wider range of potential participants who are generally committed as they have volunteered. Therefore, this could generate a representative sample.
What is the disadvantage of volunteer/self selected sample
It’s biased leading to non-representative sample as people tend not to respond unless they have a strong view or a motivation limiting the generalisability to the target population.
