Sample and Sample Techniques

Question 1

Difference between a population and a sample

Answer 1

Sample techniques include random, systematic, stratified, opportunity and volunteering: implications of sampling techniques include bias and generalization.

Question 2

Random

Answer 2

When all members of the target population have an equal chance of being selected

Question 3

Systematic

Answer 3

When every nth member is selected

Question 4

Stratified

Answer 4

Sample that reflects the proportion of people in certain sub groups within a target

Question 5

Opportunity

Answer 5

Selecting anyone who happens to be willing and available at the time

Question 6

Volunteer

Answer 6

Involves participants selecting themselves to be part of the sample

Question 7

Strengths and Weaknesses of Random

Answer 7

• Free from researcher bias
• Sample may not actually be representative

Question 8

Strengths and Weaknesses of Systematic

Answer 8

• A systematic sample is (in theory) free from researcher bias
• Not as objective as random

Question 9

Strengths and Weaknesses of Stratified

Answer 9

• Avoids researcher bias
• Produces a representative sample
• Stratification is not perfect

Question 10

Strengths and Weaknesses of Opportunity

Answer 10

• It tends to be more ethical
• It is a quick and efficient way of gaining participants
• There is more chance of bias
• The sample is unrepresentative of the population

Question 11

Strengths and Weaknesses of Volunteer

Answer 11

• Collecting a volunteer is easy
• Volunteer bias is a problem