Sampling Techniques

An Assignment

Submitted to the Graduate Programs

School of Natural Sciences

Saint Louis University

In Partial Fulfilment of the Requirements for the

PHE 101: Methods of Research and Biostatistics

Submitted by:

Colleen Beatrice E. Tan, RPh.

MSPH I

Submitted to:

Racquel C. Barcelo, Ph.D.

Professor

June 21, 2019

Types of Sampling
Probability
This type of sampling revolves around the idea of “every member of a population has a
known and equal chance of being selected.” to get an equal chance, randomization is used.T he
advantages of this is that it could eradicate the presence of systematic and sampling bias since
the sample could represent the whole population. Using this kind of sampling has several
advantages such as “ cost-effectiveness, involves lesser degree of judgment, comparatively easier
way of sampling, less time consuming, can be done even by non-technical persons, and the
sample is the representative of the population.”. On the other hand, it also has disadvantages,
such as “chances of selecting a specific class of samples only and Redundant and monotonous
work.”

Types of Probability Sampling

A. Simple Random Sampling
As stated in the name itself, it is when the samples, are selected entirely random, in where
the participants are numbered and again chosen randomly through an “ automated process.”
There are four ways for this kind of sampling which are as follows: “Lottery method, table of
random Number, selecting from a sequential list, and grid system.”Before choosing this kind of
sampling you must have the “population to be clearly defined, different units must be of equal
size, and every unit should be accessible and once it is selected should not be ignored or
replaced.” The unique feature that highlights as the advantage of this sampling is it is practical
and straightforward as well as assessing the accuracy of results is possible with the aid of sample
error labor.
Example: There would be the names of 30 students being chosen out of a hat from a company of
500 students.

B. Stratified Random Sampling

The sampling would be classified, which are called “ Strata,” which is based on their
sociodemographic and economic characteristics. This is used when the study is to evaluate a
population is heterogeneous under the variables of the study. It is important to remember in
doing this technique, you must t be able to assign strata that are not very similar to each other,
and each stratum must be large enough. It has advantages in presenting groups since there would
be no significant group that would be left un-presented.
Example: Researchers would divide the population by an age range.

C. Systematic Random
A systematic list is made in where it is organized in an order such as “alphabetical order,
house number, or other methods in an interval. The first order is the only one selected randomly
while the others are selected atomically “ indefinite sequence at an equal spacing from one
another.” It is believed that this sampling is "easy to operate can be verified from each step.”
Example: The research could survey every 10th customer that would visit the pharmacy

D. Cluster Random Sampling

This sampling includes a grouping of the population to a known division, which is termed
“clusters.” These clusters are now drawn randomly, and then the survey of each cluster made.
This technique limits the culture size since it has to small with “cost and limitations of the
survey.”
Example: The researcher would cluster all college students in Baguio City, then, later on, will
classify them by course, then later on selected for the population.

E. Mixed/Multistage Random Sampling

In the name as stated, this sampling includes many stages of different kinds; the
population is now considered as several “primary units” which will, later on, be synthesized to
secondary units then later third units until the proper sampling unit. It has an advantage on being
“comparatively flexible,” and it is preferred in large populations to provide a higher probability
of the selection.
Example: Choose a university using simple random sampling, then choose a specific school
under that university using a systematic sampling method, lastly use simple random or
systematic sampling to choose a department.

Non Probability
It is also referred to as “deliberate or judgment sampling.” This method is used when the
researchers select certain participants for the study. It could be time and economically wise, but
there is a possibility of bias. In contrast with probability sampling, this method has no calculation
of sample error, therefore also failing to test hypothesis framed.

Types of Non-Probability Sampling

A. Convenience Sampling
It is also referred to as “unsystematic, careless, accidental or opportunistic sampling.”
This sampling is heading to the researcher's convenience and considered to be the most
commonly used sampling technique. It is used when the “universe is not defined, the sample is
not clear, and when a complete source list is not available.”It is advantageous to the researchers
due to it being easy, cheap, and time-bound.
Example: The researchers need students; they would visit schools to obtain such population.

B. Consecutive Sampling
This kind of sampling is much similar to convenience sampling, yet it deals with all
available subjects to be selected. It is considered as the best kind of nonprobability technique
since it includes a wide range of subjects that would be represented by the population.
Example: The researchers need a geriatric population; they would visit the home of the aged.

C. Quota Sampling
The characteristics of the population are based on of the study in where the researchers
are to fortify “equal or proportionate” the selection of subjects in where the features would be
considered as the basis of the quota. It is significant to execute proper control to have more
accurate results, yet it may not be “true representative, it's not randomly selected.”
Example: A researcher would obtain a sample of 100 geriatrics.

D. Judgemental Sampling
This sampling is more commonly known as purposive sampling. It is used when a
specific purpose in research is in mind in selecting the population. As stated in the name, the
researchers now “judge” the population and select subjects that are more appropriate compared
to others.
Example: The research would pick a specific barangay, yet the population represents the whole
city.

E. Snowball Sampling
This technique is used when the population size is small, then later on the chosen
population are would initiate other subjects who are potential to join the study, as long as they
would adjoin the criteria of the research. It is a disadvantage since it would barely represent the
whole population.
Example: A group of people with HIV would talk to their peers with the same condition to join
the study.

References:
Devkota, H. R. (n.d.). Probability Sampling, Advantages, Disadvantages. Retrieved June 20,
2019, from https://www.mathstopia.net/sampling/probability-sampling-
advantages- disadvantages
Explorable.com (May 17, 2009). Non-Probability Sampling. Retrieved Jun 20, 2019, from
Explorable.com: https://explorable.com/non-probability-sampling
Probability Sampling and Randomization. (n.d.). Retrieved June 20, 2019, from https://
explorable.com/probability-sampling
Probability Sampling: Definition, Methods, and Examples. (2018, May 30). Retrieved from
https://www.questionpro.com/blog/probability-sampling/
Probability Sampling: Definition, Types, Advantages, and Disadvantages. (2018, August 14).
Retrieved from https://www.statisticshowto.datasciencecentral.com/probability-sampling/
Sampling methods review. (n.d.). Retrieved from https://www.khanacademy.org/math/statistics-
probability/designing-studies/sampling-methods-stats/