Lecture On Sampling and Sample Size
Lecture On Sampling and Sample Size
population
1. Probability Sampling Methods
1. Simple random sampling
2. Systematic sampling
3. Stratified sampling
4. Clustered sampling
This Sampling technique uses randomization to make sure that every element of the
population gets an equal chance to be part of the selected sample. It’s alternatively
known as random sampling.
Simple Random Sampling example
Random selection of 20 students from class of 50 student. Each student has equal
chance of getting selected. Here probability of selection is 1/50.
Stratified Sampling
This technique divides the elements of the population into small subgroups (strata)
based on the similarity in such a way that the elements within the group are
homogeneous and heterogeneous among the other subgroups formed. And then the
elements are randomly selected from each of these strata. We need to have prior
information about the population to create subgroups.
Cluster Sampling
Our entire population is divided into clusters or sections and then the clusters are randomly
selected. All the elements of the cluster are used for sampling. Clusters are identified using
details such as age, sex, location etc.
Cluster sampling can be done in following ways:
Single Stage Cluster Sampling
Two Stage Cluster Sampling
Systematic Clustering
Multi-Stage Sampling
Non-Probability Sampling
It does not rely on randomization. This technique is more reliant on the researcher’s
ability to select elements for a sample. Outcome of sampling might be biased and
makes difficult for all the elements of population to be part of the sample equally.
This type of sampling is also known as non-random sampling.
Convenience Sampling
Here the samples are selected based on the availability. This method is used when
the availability of sample is rare and also costly. So based on the convenience
samples are selected.
For example: Researchers prefer this during the initial stages of survey research, as
it’s quick and easy to deliver results.
Purposive Sampling
This is based on the intention or the purpose of study. Only those elements will be
selected from the population which suits the best for the purpose of our study.
For Example: If we want to understand the thought process of the people who are
interested in pursuing master’s degree then the selection criteria would be “Are you
interested for Masters in..?”
All the people who respond with a “No” will be excluded from our sample.
Quota Sampling
This type of sampling depends of some pre-set standard. It selects the representative
sample from the population. Proportion of characteristics/ trait in sample should be
same as population. Elements are selected until exact proportions of certain types of
data is obtained or sufficient data in different categories is collected.
For example: If our population has 45% females and 55% males then our sample
should reflect the same percentage of males and females.
Referral /Snowball Sampling
his technique is used in the situations where the population is completely unknown and
rare.
Therefore we will take the help from the first element which we select for the
population and ask him to recommend other elements who will fit the description of
the sample needed.
So this referral technique goes on, increasing the size of population like a snowball.
Sample Size Estimation
1. To calculate sample size, first find the population size, or number of people taking your
study, and margin of error, which is the amount of error you'll allow in your results.
2. Then, calculate your confidence level, which is how confident you are in percentage terms
that your results will fall within your margin of error, and z-score, a constant value linked
to your confidence level.
3. Next, specify your standard of deviation, which is the amount of variation you expect in
your results.
4. Finally, plug your variables into the standard formula to figure out the sample size.
Calculation STEPS
Know your population size