In research, a sample is defined as:
A) all the people who share a particular characteristic of research interest.
B) two or more people who share the same values.
C) the portion of the total population chosen for study.
D) the one case or person that best represents a particular social category.
E) a small group of volunteers for the study.

Question

Quizplus · Accepted Answer

A sample refers to a portion of the total population chosen for study. Therefore, option C is the correct choice. Option A refers to a population and not a sample. Option B refers to a group with shared values, but not necessarily chosen for a study. Option D refers to a case study design and not a sample. Option E refers to the recruitment method of volunteers, but not a sample. In research, a sample refers to the portion of the total population that is selected for study. This selection process is usually done to ensure that the sample represents the population as accurately as possible while avoiding the cost and time necessary to study everyone in the population. Therefore, option C is the best choice.

In Research, a Sample Is Defined As