Exploring the principles of sampling in psychological research, this overview discusses probability and non-probability techniques, stratified sampling, and various strategies like opportunity, voluntary, random, and systematic sampling. It emphasizes the importance of avoiding sampling bias to maintain the external validity and generalizability of research findings.
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Sampling is the process of selecting a representative subset of individuals from a larger group for the purpose of study
Population
The population refers to the entire group of individuals to whom research findings are intended to apply
Sample
A sample is a smaller group selected from the population for research purposes
Sampling is essential in psychological research as it allows for valid generalizations to be made about the population
Probability sampling provides each member of the population with an equal chance of being included in the sample, allowing for valid generalizations to be made
Non-probability sampling does not offer an equal chance of selection to all individuals, potentially introducing biases and limiting generalizability
Stratified sampling divides the population into distinct subgroups and randomly selects participants from each subgroup, aiming to capture the population's heterogeneity
Opportunity sampling involves choosing participants who are conveniently available, but may introduce selection bias
Voluntary sampling relies on individuals who choose to participate, but may also introduce bias
Random sampling, where each population member has an equal chance of being selected, is ideal for achieving representativeness but can be difficult to execute
Systematic sampling selects participants at fixed intervals from a population list, minimizing bias but requiring a complete population list
Sampling bias occurs when certain individuals in the population are more or less likely to be chosen for the sample, potentially undermining the study's external validity and generalizability
Generalization is the extension of findings from the sample to the entire population, dependent on the representativeness of the sample
Thorough understanding and careful management of sampling bias are crucial for ensuring that research findings can be generalized to the broader population, enhancing the study's significance and utility
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A ______ should reflect the larger group's traits to allow for accurate generalizations in research.
well-chosen sample
01
Probability sampling in quantitative research
Ensures each population member has equal selection chance, crucial for generalizing findings.
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Non-probability sampling bias potential
Doesn't give equal selection chance, can introduce biases, limiting population inferences.
