Sampling Techniques Essay Example | Topics and Well Written Essays - 250 words

Sampling Techniques - Essay Example To start with, probability sampling involves random selection and has four methods as follows. Simple random sampling where there is an equal chance of selection for every element. In systematic random sampling every nineth element is selected while stratified random sampling is one in which population is divided into segments (Trochim, 2004). Lastly cluster sample is where a particular subgroup is randomly chosen to represent the population under study. In conclusion, non-probability random samples occur due to influence by certain factors. These factors are as follows: Convenience which is easy to find, purposive relating to the purpose intended, snowball sampling where the chosen subject suggests another, and finally quota which involves subgroups chosen to represent a quota of the population to be studied (Tille and Ardilly,187). Sampling advantages are time saving, economical, easy to adapt, reliable and indispensable. Limitations of sampling or inaccuracy in the results, expensive in terms of time and energy, unsuitable in that not applicable to other areas, and inherent defects in the