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Lecture 8 - Research Methods 3

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Lecture 8 - Research Methods 3

Uploaded by

rabia
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© © All Rights Reserved
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RESEARCH

METHODOLOGY
Population and Sampling

• Target Population

• Sampling Frame

• Sample Size

• Sampling Techniques
The sampling frame

■ The sampling frame for any probability sample is a complete list of all
the cases in the population from which your sample will be drown.
Selecting samples
Population, sample and individual cases

Source: Saunders et al. (2009)


Figure 7.1 Population, sample and individual cases
The need to sample

Sampling- a valid alternative to a census when

■ A survey of the entire population is impracticable

■ Budget constraints restrict data collection

■ Time constraints restrict data collection

■ Results from data collection are needed quickly


Sampling Techniques

Source: Saunders et al. (2009)

Figure 7.2 Sampling techniques


Probability sampling

The four stage process

1. Identify sampling frame from research objectives

2. Decide on a suitable sample size

3. Select the appropriate technique and the sample

4. Check that the sample is representative


Selecting a sampling technique
Five main techniques used for a probability sample

■ Simple random

■ Systematic

■ Stratified random

■ Cluster

■ Multi-stage
Simple random(Random sampling)

■ Involves you selecting at random frame using either random number tables, a computer
or an online random number generator such as Research Randomizer

www.randomizer.org
Systematic sampling

■ Systematic sampling involves you selecting the sample at regular


intervals from the sampling frame.
1. Number each of the cases in your sampling frame with a unique
number . The first is numbered 0, the second 1 and so on.
2. Select the first case using a random number.
3. Calculate the sample fraction.
4. Select subsequent cases systematically using the sample fraction to
determine the frequency of selection
Stratified random sampling

■ Stratified random sampling is a modification of random sampling in


which you divide the population into two or more relevant and significant
strata based in a one or a number of attributes. In effect, your sampling
frame is divided into a number of subsets. A random sample (simple or
systematic) is then drown from each of the strata. Consequently stratified
sampling shares many of the advantages and disadvantages of simple
random or systematic sampling
Cluster Sampling

■ Is on the surface, similar to stratified as you need to divide the population into discrete
groups prior to sampling. The groups are termed clusters in this form of sampling and
can be based in any naturally occurring grouping. For example, you could group your
data by type of manufacturing firm or geographical area
Cluster Sampling

■ For cluster sampling your sampling frame is the complete list of clusters rather than
complete list of individual cases within population, you then select a few cluster
normally using simple random sampling,. Data are then collected from every case
within the selected clusters
Multi-stage sampling (multi-stage cluster
sampling
■ It is a development of cluster sampling, it is normally used to overcome
problems associated with a geographically dispersed population when
face to face contact is needed or where it is expensive and time
consuming to construct a sampling frame for a large geographical area.
However, like cluster sampling you can use it for any discrete groups,
including those not are geographically based. The technique involves
taking a series of cluster samples, each involving some from of random
sampling
Non-Probability Sampling Techniques
Non- probability sampling (2)

Sampling techniques

■ Quota sampling (larger populations)


■ Purposive sampling
■ Snowball sampling
■ Self-selection sampling
■ Convenience sampling
Quota sampling

■ It is entirely non random and it is normally used for interview


surveys. It is based on the premise that your sample will
represent the population as the variability in your sample for
various quota variables is the same as that in population. Quota
sampling is therefore a type of stratified sample in which
selection of cases within strata is entirely non-random
Quota sampling

■ Divide the population into specific groups.


■ Calculate a quota for each group based on relevant and available data.
■ Give each interviewer an ‘assignment', which states the number of cases
in each quota from which they must collect data.
■ Combine the data collected by interviewers to provide the full sample.
Purposive sampling

■ Purposive or judgmental sampling enables you to use your


judgment to select cases that will best enable you to answer
your research question(s) and to meet your objectives.
■ This form of sample is often used when working with very
small samples such as in case research and when you wish to
select cases that are particularly informative .
Snowball sampling

■ Is commonly used when it is difficult to identify members of desired


population. For example people who are working while claiming
unemployment benefit you therefore, need to:
1. Make contact with one or two cases in the population.
2. Ask these cases to identify further cases.
3. Ask theses new cases to identify further new cases (and so on)
4. Stop when either no new cases are given or the sample is as large as
manageable
Self selecting sampling

■ It occurs when you allow each case usually individuals, to identify their desire to take
part in the research you therefore
1. Publicize your need for cases, either by advertising through appropriate media or by
asking them to take part.
2. Collect data from those who respond
■
Convenience sampling
■ Convenience sampling (or haphazard sampling) involves selecting
haphazardly those cases that are easiest to obtain for your sample.

■ The sample selection process is continued until your required sample size has
been reached.

■ Although this technique of sampling is used widely , it is prone to bias and


influences that are beyond your control, as the cases appear in the sample only
because of the ease of obtaining them.

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