Chapter 8: Sampling Procedure Flashcards
The process of choosing the group of individuals (sample) to survey is called ___
Sampling
The group from which the sample is drawn is called ___
Population
Example: all the individuals in the United States.
What is a census?
When the entire population is surveyed
What are the steps in the sampling process?
- Define the population
- Identify the sample frame
- Choose a sampling procedure
- Decide on the sample size
- Select the sample
What is a probability sample?
Each member of the target population has a known and nonzero chance of being selected
What is sampling error?
The amount of error that the researcher is willing to accept as a result of the sampling process
What is a nonprobability sample?
The probability or chance of someone being selected is not known and cannot be determined
What is the importance of sample size?
The correct sample size increases the probability the findings will accurately reflect the target population
What is a fixed sample?
The sample size is determined before conducting the research
What is a sequential sample?
Involves surveying a sample, and if enough respondents are obtained, the research moves into the analysis stage
What is convenience sampling?
Individuals or objects that are convenient for the researcher to survey
When is convenience sampling most appropriate?
For exploratory research or the early stages of a descriptive study
What is a judgment sample?
Researchers use their judgment to select a sample they believe can provide useful information or reflect the population being studied
What can a sample refer to?
A sample can also refer to objects such as retail stores, websites, and products.
Why is sampling used?
Sampling is used because it is not practical to survey an entire population.
What is a census?
A census is when the entire population is surveyed.
What are the steps in the sampling process?
- Define the population
- Identify the sample frame
- Choose a sampling procedure
- Decide on the sample size
- Select the sample.
What factors influence sample size?
The correct sample size increases the probability the findings will accurately reflect the target population.
What is exploratory research?
Exploratory research is used in the early stages of a descriptive study rather than for more definitive studies.
What is a quota sample?
A quota sample ensures the sample contains the same proportion of characteristics specified by the researcher as is evident in the population being examined.
It produces a nonprobability sample that is more representative of the population.
What is a snowball sample?
A snowball sample is a unique nonprobability sampling technique that begins with one or a few individuals identified as good subjects, who then refer others for the study.
This method is used when it’s difficult to identify individuals who meet specific criteria.
What is a simple random sample?
A simple random sample is when each element in the population has a known and equal chance of being selected.
What is a systematic random sample?
A systematic random sample uses a systematic process to select participants, requiring individuals in the population to be arranged in some type of order or list.
What is a stratified sample?
A stratified sample involves dividing the population into mutually exclusive and categorically exhaustive groups related to the behavior of interest, then randomly selecting elements from each group.
The division must be mutually exclusive and collectively exhaustive.
