Sampling in Research
Submitted to: Ma’am Amna Safdar
Submitted by: Maviya Waheed (2021-ES-21)
Syeda sheharbano (2021-ES-10)
Naz Talib (2021-ES-16)
Table of content
What is sampling?
Concepts used in sampling
Techniques of sampling
Types of probability sampling
Types of non-probability sampling
Population and sampling frames
What is sampling?
Sampling is the process of selecting a subset of individuals, items, or
observations from a larger population for the purpose of making inferences or
generalizations about the entire population. Since it is often impractical or
impossible to study an entire population due to constraints like time, cost, or
accessibility, researchers use sampling to gather and analyse data more
efficiently.
Concepts used in sampling
The following concepts are used in sampling designs
Universe or population
Stratum
Elements, and
Sample
Continued…
Universe:
In sample language, a population or universe can be defined as any collection of
persons or objects or event in which one is interested.
Stratum:
When the population is divided into several groups on the basis of one or several
characteristics, we call each group as a stratum. Stratum can also be called as a
sub population.
Population element:
By a population element we mean the units that make the population. Such units may be an
individual, an object, or even a small group.
Continued…
Sample:
By sample we mean the aggregate of objects, persons or elements, selected from
the universe. It is a portion or sub part of the total population.
The following two methods are used to collect information about the
population
o Census: When each and every element or unit of the population is studied
o Sampling: When a small part of the population is selected for study.
Techniques of Sampling
There are two major techniques of sampling which are given below:
1. Probability Sampling Techniques
2. Non Probability Sampling
Probability sampling technique
Probability sampling is also known as ‘random sampling this is a sampling
which permits every single item from the universe to have an equal chance of
presence in the sample.
Types of probability sampling:
1. Systematic random sampling
2. Stratified sampling
3. Cluster sampling
Types of Probability Sampling
Systematic random sampling:
In systematic sampling only the first unit is selected randomly and the remaining
units of the sample are to be selected by a fixed period, it is not like a random
sample in real sense, systematic sampling has confident points of having
improvement over the simple random sample, as ample the systematic sample is
feast more equally completed to the complete population.
Stratified sampling:
Stratified sampling divides a large population into smaller groups, called strata,
where each group is homogeneous than the overall population. These groups are
based on shared characteristics like age, gender, or income. Then, a sample is taken
from each group. Since each group is more similar within itself, it gives us more
accurate or reliable results. By selecting samples from all these smaller groups, we
can get a better, more precise estimate of the entire population.
Continued…
Cluster sampling:
When the total area of the research is too large a better way for the researcher is to
divide the area in to smaller part of the same or equal and then select randomly
from the smaller units. it is expected that that the total population is to be divided
in to relatively a smaller number which are still from the clusters of smaller units
and then some of this cluster unit will be selected randomly so that it will be
included in the general sampling.
Non- Probability Sampling Techniques
Non-probability sampling is a sampling procedure that will not bid a basis for
any opinion of probability that elements in the universe will have a chance to
be included in the study sample.
Types of non-probability sampling:
1. Quota sampling
2. Convenience sampling
3. Judgmental sampling
Types of NON-Probability Sampling
Quota sampling:
Quota sampling is a non-random sampling technique in which participants are
chosen on the basis of predetermined characteristics so that the total sample will
have the same distribution of characteristics as the wider population.
Convenience sampling:
Convenience sampling is selecting participants because they are often readily and
easily available. For example, using friends or family as part of sample is easier
than targeting unknown individuals.
Purposive or judgmental sampling:
Purposive or judgmental sampling is a strategy in which particular settings
persons or events are selected deliberately in order to provide important
information that cannot be obtained from other choices.
Population and sampling frames
The population is the broader group you are studying, while the sampling
frame is a subset that represents this population and from which you can
actually draw your sample. A good sampling frame should be as close as
possible to the actual population to minimize biases or errors in your study.
For an air pollution study in a city:
Population: All city residents affected by air pollution.
Sampling Frame: A list of registered households from which you select
participants. To avoid bias, the frame should include all neighborhoods, especially
those near pollution sources like factories, to accurately represent the population.
Conclusion
In conclusion, selecting the appropriate sampling method is crucial for obtaining
reliable and valid research results. Probability sampling methods, like systematic,
stratified, and cluster sampling, offer representative samples and allow for
generalization to the broader population. In contrast, non-probability sampling
methods, such as quota, convenience, and judgmental sampling, are quicker but
risk higher bias and limited generalizability. The choice depends on the research
goals, available resources, and the need for precision in representing the
population.
Thank you!
