A researcher is conducting a study on eating disorders. Using a list of recent participants in the online Weight Watchers program, she randomly selects a name from the alphabetized list. She then chooses every tenth person from that point on to include in her study. This sampling strategy is called
A) systematic.
B) cluster.
C) simple random.
D) stratified.
E) convenience.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

The sampling strategy described is systematic, as the researcher is selecting participants at regular intervals (every tenth person) from an alphabetized list. This is not a simple random sample because the participants are being selected in a non-random way. It is not a cluster sample because the participants are not being selected based on their location or group membership. It is not a stratified sample because the participants are not being divided into specific groups based on relevant variables. Finally, it is not a convenience sample because the researcher is not selecting participants who are easily accessible or available.

A Researcher Is Conducting a Study on Eating Disorders