Deck 9: Sampling

Question 1

Summarize the relationship between a representative sample and a population.

Answer 1

The researcher's goal in sampling is to obtain a representative sample, meaning the sample is similar in all areas to the population that yielded it but contains fewer people than the population.

Question 2

Differentiate between random sampling and nonrandom sampling in quantitative research.

Answer 2

Sampling in quantitative research is either random or nonrandom. Random sampling will generate representative samples, whereas nonrandom sampling will not.

Question 3

Which form of random sampling uses a sampling interval?

A) Systematic sampling
B) Simple random sampling
C) Cluster random sampling
D) Stratified random sampling

Answer 3

A
Explanation: Systematic sampling uses a uses a factor known as a sampling interval; this is the population size divided by the desired sample size. Simple random sampling, which is the most basic type of random sampling, allows everyone in the group that yielded the sample to have an equal chance of selection for the final sample. Cluster random sampling is used when clusters or groups of potential participants, rather than individual subjects, are included only if the clusters are approximately equal in size. Stratified random sampling occurs when the researcher initially selects a stratification variable, such as gender or race, to classify the sampling frame.

Question 4

Which form of nonrandom sampling is most appropriate for use when members of the research population are especially difficult to find?

A) Quota sampling
B) Snowball sampling
C) Purposive sampling
D) Convenience sampling

Question 5

Discuss advantages and disadvantages of convenience sampling.

Question 6

Discuss the purpose and importance of random assignment of participants.

Question 7

Explain the impact of homogeneity on the representativeness of a sample.

Question 8

Which purposive sampling technique is used by the researcher to limit the possibility of selectively identifying cases that support the researcher's personal theory?

A) Critical-case sampling
B) Typical-case sampling
C) Extreme-case sampling
D) Negative-case sampling

Question 9

The DNP researcher is engaged in recruiting participants for a qualitative research project. During the recruitment process, the key contact begins to function as a gatekeeper who impedes communication between the DNP researcher and potential participants. Describe a course of action that may be employed by DNP researcher to overcome the key contact's resistance and move forward with recruitment.