Variables and Sampling

Question 1

Variable

Answer 1

Anything that varies or any phenomenon where changes can be measured. Typically observable and their changes are in some way measurable

Question 2

Types of variables

Answer 2

Quantitative— refers to quantities that can be measured
Categorical— refers to qualities that can be used to assign categories to individuals

Question 3

Independent variable

Answer 3

Factor that is manipulated by the researcher

Question 4

Dependent variable

Answer 4

Factor measured by the researcher

Question 5

Sampling Methods

Answer 5

Probability Samples — systematic, simple random, stratified
Non-Probability— convenience, purposive, snowball

Question 6

Probability Sampling

Answer 6

Use random selection (every single member of a population has an equal chance of being selected for participation)

Question 7

Simple Random Sampling

Answer 7

Gives every member of a target population an equal chance of being selected
Process:
1. Organize the sampling frame to identify every me member of the accesible population
2. Use a statistical random method to select the sample

Question 8

Stratified Randome Sample

Answer 8

Key Subgroups within the population are first identified and then a simple random sample is taken from within each subgroup
Options:
- proportional sampling involves selecting the same fraction of participants from each subgroup
- disproportionate sampling
Allows for a more representative sample

Question 9

Non Probability Sampling

Answer 9

Refers to sampling techniques that don’t use random selection. It is more common in qualitative research

Question 10

Convenience Opportunity Sampling

Answer 10

Sample is based on the convenience of the researcher, using whatever population happens to be available. Samples are not statistically generalizable to the target population typically:
- readily available
- nearby
- Willing to participate

Question 11

Volunteering Sampling

Answer 11

Since some studies have effects on participants, researcher are likely to seek volunteers who chose to participate

Question 12

Purposive Sampling

Answer 12

Participants are selected according to predetermined criteria relevant to a particular research question. It seeks a sample that fits the specific need of a hypothesis or research question

Question 13

Snowball Sampling

Answer 13

Participants who are already in a study, help the researcher to recruit more participants. First participants are selected through purposive sampling.