MR Chapter 12
MR Chapter 12
OUTCOMES:
Pragmatic reasons = research projects almost always have budget and time
constraints. If a researcher had a small population they may choose to conduct a
census. Sampling cuts costs, reduces labor requirements and gathers vital
information quickly.
Accurate and reliable results = properly selected samples give results that are
reasonably accurate. A sample may be even be more accurate than a census .
Interviewer mistakes, tabulation errors and other nonsampling errors are more
prevalent in a census as workers could suffer from burnout and fatigue.
Describe the process of identifying a target population and selecting a
sampling frame
The population must be defined accurately for the research to produce good results.
Ask and answer the following questions:
A list of elements from which a sample may be drawn; also called working population
is our sampling frame. A sampling frame error occurs when certain sample elements
are excluded or the entire population is not accurately represented in the sampling
frame
Simple Random Sampling – sampling procedure that assures each element in the
population of an equal chance of being included in the sample.
Systematic sampling – starting point is selected by a random process and then every
nth number on the list is selected. Interval = population size/ sample size.
Stratified sampling- simple random subsamples that are more or equal on some
characteristic are drawn from within each stratum of the population. This sampling is
used to obtain a more efficient sample than would be possible with simple random
sampling.
If the target population has first been divided into units (e.g. bus brands) additional
terminology needs to be used. A unit selected in the first stage of sampling is called
a primary sampling unit. A unit selected in a successive stage is the secondary
sampling unit; and after this (if necessary) the tertiary sampling unit.
Random sampling error – term used that refers only to statistical fluctuations that
occur because of chance variations in the elements selected for the sample. As
sample size increases, random sampling error decreases.
Systematic sampling error – these are errors that resut from nonsampling factors,
primarily the nature of a study’s design and the correctness of execution.
Discuss how to choose an appropriate sample design
o Degree of accuracy – this may vary from project to project , especially when
cost savings or another benefit may be a trade-off for a reduction in accuracy.
o Resources – if financial and human resources are restricted, certain options
will have to be eliminated.
o Time – a researcher who needs to meet a deadline/ complete a project
quickly will be more likely to select a simple, less time- consuming sample
design.
o Advance Knowledge of the population – having access to lists is of great
assistance.
o National or Local Project?