Sample Design
640 likes | 698 Vues
Learn the essentials of sampling in research, from defining target populations to selecting the right sample frame and units. Understand probability and non-probability methods with practical examples, including simple random, systematic, stratified, and cluster sampling. Discover the strengths and weaknesses of each technique to make informed decisions for your research projects.
Sample Design
E N D
Presentation Transcript
Sample Design (Click icon for audio) Dr. Michael R. Hyman, NMSU
Sampling Terminology • Population or universe • Population element • Census • Sample
Population/Universe • Any complete group • People • Sales territories • Stores • Total group from which information is needed
Census Investigation of all individual elements that make up a population
Sample Subset of a larger population of interest
Define the target population Select a sampling frame Determine if probability or non-probability sampling method will be chosen Stages in Selecting a Sample Plan procedure for selecting sampling units Determine sample size Select actual sampling units Conduct fieldwork
Define Target Population • Look at research objectives • Relevant population • Operationally define • Consider alternatives and convenience
Select Sampling Frame • List of elements from which sample may be drawn • Mailing and commercial lists can be problematic (more on this later)
Sampling Units • Group selected for the sample • Can be persons, households, businesses, et cetera • Primary sampling units • Secondary sampling units
Choose Probability or Non-probability Sample • Probability sample • Known, nonzero probability for every element • Non-probability sample • Probability of selecting any particular member is unknown
Non-probability Samples • Convenience • Judgment • Quota • Snowball
Convenience Sample • Also called haphazard or accidental sampling • Sampling procedure for obtaining people or units that are convenient to researchers
Discrepancy between Implied and Ideal Populations in Convenience Sampling
Judgment Sample • Also called purposive sampling • Experienced person selects sample based on his or her judgment about some appropriate characteristics required of sample members
Discrepancy between Implied and Ideal Populations in Judgment Sampling
Quota Sample • Various population subgroups are represented on pertinent sample characteristics to the extent desired by researchers • Do not confuse with stratified sampling (discussed later)
Snowball Sample • Initial respondents selected by probability methods • Additional respondents obtained from information provided by initial respondents
Probability Samples • Simple random sample • Systematic sample • Stratified sample • Cluster sample
Simple Random Sample Ensures each element in the population has an equal chance of selection
Systematic Sample • A simple process • Every nth name from list will be drawn
Stratified Sample • Probability sample • Sub-samples drawn within different strata • Each stratum more or less equal on some characteristic • Do not confuse with quota sample
Disproportionate Stratified Random Sampling Used by A.C. Nielsen
Cluster Sample • Purpose: to sample economically while retaining characteristics of a probability sample • Primary sampling unit is not individual element in population • Instead, it is larger cluster of elements located in proximity to one another
Bases for Choosing a Sample Design • Degree of accuracy • Resources • Time • Advanced knowledge of population • National versus local • Need for statistical analysis
After Sample Design is Selected • Determine sample size • Select actual sample units • Conduct fieldwork
Types of Sampling Errors • Sampling frame error • Random sampling error • Non-response error
Random Sampling Error • Difference between sample results and result of a census conducted using identical procedures • Statistical fluctuation due to chance variations
Systematic Errors • Non-sampling errors • Unrepresentative sample results caused by flawed study design or imperfections in execution rather than chance