Sampling Design
Sampling Fundamentals
1. Universe/Population
2. Sampling frame
3. Sampling design
4. Statistic (s) and parameter(s)
5. Sampling error
Steps involved in sampling design
The goal is to select a sample that accurately represents
the population of interest and minimizes bias. Here are
the steps in sampling design:
• Define the Population
• Determine the Research Objectives
• Select the Sampling Frame
– The sampling frame is a list or set of elements from which
the sample will be drawn. It should be a complete and
accurate representation of the population. Common
sampling frames include lists of all individuals, households,
or businesses in the population.
• Choose the Sampling Method
• Determine the Sample Size
• Collect the Data
• Analyze the Data
• Account for Non-Response
• Report the Findings
• Draw Inferences
• Assess the Validity of Results
• Document the Sampling Plan
• Iterate If Necessary
Random Sampling
• Random sampling/probability sampling
techniques are methods used to select a sample
from a population in a way that ensures every
element in the population has an equal chance
of being included in the sample.
• This approach helps in minimizing bias and
increasing the representativeness of the sample.
• Here are some common random sampling
techniques:
• Simple Random Sampling:
• In simple random sampling, each member of
the population has an equal and independent
chance of being selected for the sample. This
is typically done using random number
generators or random selection methods. It is
one of the most straightforward methods for
achieving representativeness.
• Stratified Sampling:
• In stratified sampling, the population is
divided into subgroups or strata based on
specific characteristics (e.g., age, gender,
income). Random samples are then selected
from each stratum. This method ensures that
each subgroup is well-represented in the
sample and is useful when you want to make
comparisons between strata.
• Systematic Sampling:
• Systematic sampling involves selecting every
nth element from a list or population. The first
element is chosen randomly, and subsequent
elements are selected at regular intervals. It
can be an efficient way to create a
representative sample if the list is already
ordered.
• Cluster Sampling:
• In cluster sampling, the population is divided
into clusters (e.g., geographic regions or
schools), and a random sample of clusters is
selected. All members within the chosen
clusters are included in the sample. Cluster
sampling is useful when it is impractical to
create a comprehensive list of the population.
Non-Random Sampling Techniques
• Non-random sampling techniques, also known as non-
probability sampling methods, involve selecting a sample
from a population in a way that does not provide every
element in the population an equal or known chance of
being included in the sample.
• These methods are often used when random sampling is
impractical, too costly, or not feasible. While they have
their uses, non-random sampling techniques can introduce
bias and may not provide results that are as representative
of the population as random sampling methods.
• Here are some common non-random sampling techniques:
• Convenience Sampling:
• Convenience sampling involves selecting
individuals who are readily accessible or easy
to reach. This method is often used for quick
and inexpensive data collection but can
introduce bias because it may not represent
the population well.
• Judgment or Purposive Sampling:
• The purposive sampling technique is a type of
non-probability sampling. Judgment sampling
involves selecting participants based on the
researcher's judgment or expertise.
Researchers choose specific individuals or
cases that they believe will provide valuable
insights. This method is subjective and may
not be representative.
• Snowball Sampling:
• Snowball sampling is commonly used in
studies involving hard-to-reach populations. It
starts with an initial participant who is asked
to refer other participants, creating a
"snowball" effect. This method is useful for
studying hidden or stigmatized groups.
• Volunteer or Self-Selection Sampling:
• In volunteer or self-selection sampling,
participants voluntarily choose to be part of
the sample. This method is often used in
online surveys or studies that rely on
participants' willingness to participate. It can
lead to a self-selection bias, as those who
choose to participate may differ from those
who do not.
• Panel or Longitudinal Sampling:
• Panel sampling involves selecting a specific
group of individuals (a panel) and following
them over time. The sample remains constant,
and data is collected from the same
individuals in multiple rounds. While this
method can provide insights into change over
time, it may not be representative of the
broader population.
