Sampling methods

Question 1

What is random sampling?

Answer 1

Method of sampling which means each member of the target population group has equal chance odds of inclusion in the sample. Maximises the likelihood that the results are generalisable.

Question 2

What is convenience / purposive sampling?

Answer 2

Sampling which is used to recruit participants from known, easily accessible populations

Question 3

What is snowball sampling?

Answer 3

It involves recruitment of an initial group, and further recruitment of the same target population coming from the participants involved in the initial group

Question 4

What is theoretical sampling?

Answer 4

This sampling technique is formed during the research process. The researchers select data sources based on emerging concepts and theory until saturation is reached.

Question 5

What is stratified sampling?

Answer 5

Divides key variables into strata, for example age or smoking status and randomly samples from each strata. This achieves the required amount for statistically significant analysis in subgroups