NAME: ADEBAYO EMMANUEL AYODEJI
MATRIC NO: 210505021
DEPARTMENT: QUANTITY SURVEYING
LEVEL: 200 LEVEL
LECTURER: DR. MRS. AJAYI
To be submitted on the 14th of May, 2024.
In statistics, Sampling is the process of selecting a subset of a larger population for
analysis. This subset, called a sample, is used to estimate characteristics of the entire
population. Sampling is essential because it allows researchers to study large groups
without having to examine every single member.
There are two main types of sampling techniques:
1. Probability sampling
2. Non-probability sampling.
Probability Sampling
Probability sampling is a statistical method used to select a representative sample from
a larger population. In this method, every member of the population has a known and
non-zero chance of being included in the sample. Probability sampling is essential for
conducting studies and surveys that can be generalized to the larger population,
allowing researchers to draw reliable conclusions. This is achieved through random
selection techniques, ensuring that the chosen sample accurately reflects the
characteristics of the entire population. Examples of this sampling are:
Simple Random Sampling: Every member of the population has an equal
chance of being selected. This is often done using a random number generator
or lottery system. It ensures an unbiased sample but can be time-consuming for
large populations.
Systematic Sampling: Similar to simple random sampling, but selection begins
from a random starting point and then proceeds systematically (e.g., every nth
name on a list). It's easier to implement than simple random sampling but can be
biased if there's an underlying pattern in the list.
Stratified Sampling: The population is divided into subgroups (strata) based on
relevant characteristics (e.g., age, gender, occupation). A random sample is then
drawn from each stratum. This ensures that all subgroups are adequately
represented in the sample.
Cluster Sampling: The population is divided into groups (clusters), and then a
random sample of clusters is chosen. All members of the chosen clusters are
included in the sample. This is useful when the population is geographically
dispersed or when a complete list of individuals is unavailable.
Non-Probability Sampling
Non-probability sampling is a sampling technique where researchers select samples
based on their judgment or convenience, rather than using a random process. This
means not all members of the population have an equal chance of being included in the
sample. Non-probability sampling is often used for exploratory research or when it's not
feasible to obtain a random sample. For example, a researcher might interview a
convenience sample of shoppers at a mall to get quick insights into customer
preferences.
While non-probability sampling can be a good way to gather initial information, it's
important to be aware that the results cannot be generalized to the entire population.
This is because the sample may not be representative of the population as a whole.
Examples of this sampling are:
Convenience Sampling: The easiest and fastest method to use, where readily
available individuals are selected (e.g., students in a class, shoppers in a mall).
This is not a random sample and can lead to biased results.
Purposive Sampling: The researcher selects a sample that is judged to be
typical or informative about the population of interest (e.g., experts in a particular
field). This can be useful for exploratory research but may not be generalizable to
the larger population.
Snowball Sampling: The researcher starts with a few individuals who meet the
criteria and then asks them to identify others who also meet the criteria. This is
useful for studying rare populations but can lead to a biased sample if the initial
contacts are not representative of the population.
Quota Sampling: The researcher sets quotas for different subgroups in the
population (e.g., age, gender) and then selects samples to fill those quotas. This
can be useful for ensuring that the sample reflects the composition of the
population but may not be random.
