#5 TTH 12:30 – 2:00

BSAC – AAH 10. 10. 19

1. Random Sampling Techniques

a. What is sampling?
Sampling is a statistical procedure that is concerned with the selection of the individual observation; it helps us to
make statistical inferences about the population.
The Main Characteristics of Sampling
In sampling, we assume that samples are drawn from the population and sample means and population means are
equal. A population can be defined as a whole that includes all items and characteristics of the research taken into
study. However, gathering all this information is time consuming and costly. We therefore make inferences about
the population with the help of samples.

Source: https://www.statisticssolutions.com/sample-size-calculation-and-sample-size-justification/sampling/

b. What are the three main types of sampling strategy?

b.1 Random sampling is a way of selecting a sample of observations from a population in order to make
inferences about the population. For example, exit polls from voters that aim to predict the likely results of an
election. Random sampling is also known as probability sampling. The main forms of random sampling
are simple random sampling, stratified sampling, cluster sampling, and multistage sampling. Samples that are not
random are typically called convenience samples.
Source: https://www.displayr.com/what-is-random-sampling/
b.2 Systematic sampling is a type of probability sampling method in which sample members from a larger
population are selected according to a random starting point but with a fixed, periodic interval. This interval,
called the sampling interval, is calculated by dividing the population size by the desired sample size.
Source: https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/systematic-sampling.asp
b.3 Stratified sampling refers to a type of sampling method . With stratified sampling, the researcher divides the
population into separate groups, called strata. Then, a probability sample (often a simple random sample ) is
drawn from each group.
Source: https://stattrek.com/statistics/dictionary.aspx?definition=stratified_sampling

c. What are the advantages of each sampling type?

c.1 Random Sampling
Advantages:
 It is the simplest form of data collection.
This type of research involves basic observation and recording skills. It requires no basic skills out of the
population base or the items being researched. It also removes any classification errors that may be
involved if other forms of data collection were being used.
 Findings can be applied to the entire population base.
Because of the processes that allow for random sampling, the data collected can produce results for the
larger frame because there is such little relevance of bias within the findings.
Disadvantages:
 No additional knowledge is taken into consideration.
Although random sampling removes an unconscious bias that exists, it does not remove an intentional
bias from the process. Researchers can choose regions for random sampling where they believe specific
results can be obtained to support their own personal bias.
 It is easy to get the data wrong just as it is easy to get right.
The application of random sampling is only effective when all potential respondents are included within
the large sampling frame. Everyone or everything that is within the demographic or group being analyzed
must be included for the random sampling to be accurate.

Source: https://vittana.org/17-advantages-and-disadvantages-of-random-sampling

c.2 Systematic Sampling

Advantages:
 Systematic samples are relatively easy to construct, execute, compare, and understand. This is particularly
important for studies or surveys that operate with tight budget constraints.
 Perhaps the greatest strength of a systematic approach is its low risk factor. The primary potential
disadvantages of the system carry a distinctly low probability of contaminating the data.
Disadvantages:
 The systematic method assumes the size of the population is available or can be reasonably approximated.
For instance, suppose researchers want to study the size of rats in a given area. If they don't have any idea
how many rats there are, they cannot systematically select a starting point or interval size.
 There is a greater risk of data manipulation with systematic sampling because researchers might be able to
construct their systems to increase the likelihood of achieving a targeted outcome rather than letting the
random data produce a representative answer. Any resulting statistics could not be trusted.
Source: https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/042415/what-are-advantages-and-disadvantages-using-
systematic-sampling.asp

c.3 Stratified Sampling

Advantages:
 Using stratified sampling, it may be possible to reduce the sample size required to achieve a given
precision
 We can ensure that we obtain sufficient sample points to support a separate analysis of any subgroup.
Disadvantages:
 It may require more administrative effort than a simple random sample.
 The analysis is computationally more complex.

Source: https://stattrek.com/survey-research/stratified-sampling.aspx

d. Differentiate the following:

d.1 Stratified Systematic Sampling and Stratified Random Sampling
 Stratified systematic sampling techniques are generally used when the population is heterogeneous, or
dissimilar, or where certain homogeneous, or similar, sub-populations can be isolated (strata).
 Stratified random sampling involves dividing the entire population into homogeneous groups called
strata (plural for stratum). Random samples are then selected from each stratum.

Sources: https://groups.nceas.ucsb.edu/monitoring-kb/2-design/2.1_Status_Trend_Design/2.1.1-spatial/2.1.6-
survey_design/2.6.1.2.13_systematic-stratified_proscons &
https://www.investopedia.com/terms/stratified_random_sampling.asp

d.2 Systematic Random Sampling, Simple Random Sampling, Stratified Random Sampling, Cluster
Random Sampling
Systematic Random sampling is a technique for creating a random probability sample in which each piece of
data is chosen at a fixed interval for inclusion in the sample.
Simple random sampling uses a subset of a statistical population in which each member of the subset has an
equal probability of being chosen.
Stratified random sampling is a method of sampling that involves the division of a population into smaller sub-
groups known as strata.
Cluster sampling refers to a type of sampling method, with cluster sampling, the researcher divides the
population into separate groups, called clusters.

Sources: https://www.thoughtco.com/systematic-sampling-3026732;
https://www.investopedia.com/terms/s/systematic-sampling.asp ;
https://stattrek.com/statistics/dictionary.aspx?definition=cluster_sampling;
https://www.investopedia.com/terms/stratified_random_sampling.asp

d.3 Random Point Sampling, Random Line Sampling, Random Area Sampling
Random point sampling is also called proportional random sampling or quota random sampling. By contrast,
simple random sampling is a sample of individuals that exist in a population; the individuals
are randomly selected from the population and placed into a sample.
Random line sampling is a method of sampling in a geographical area. Lines are drawn across the area and all
members of the population falling on the line, or intersected by it, are included in the sample
Random area sampling is a method in which an area to be sampled is sub-divided into smaller blocks that are
then selected at random and then again sub-sampled or fully surveyed. This method is typically used when a
complete frame of reference is not available to be used.

Sources: http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/area-sampling.html;
https://stats.oecd.org/glossary/detail.asp?ID=3698; https://www.investopedia.com/ask/answers/032615/what-are-
some-examples-stratified-random-sampling.asp

d.4 Systematic Point sampling, Systematic Line Sampling, Systematic Area Sampling
Systematic Point Sampling is a probability sampling method where the elements are chosen from a target
population by selecting a random starting point and selecting other members after a fixed 'sampling interval'.
Systematic Line Sampling is a sampling technique by, for example, taken by selecting the elements of one
column. If we look at one line as one stratum, then systematic sampling would mean here to select exactly one
element per stratum from all strata.
Systematic Area Sampling is a method of sampling used when no complete frame of reference is available. The
total area under investigation is divided into small sub-areas which are sampled at random or according to a
restricted process (stratification of sampling).

Sources: https://www.questionpro.com/blog/systematic-sampling/; http://wiki.awf.forst.uni-

goettingen.de/wiki/index.php/Systematic_sampling; https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-
explained/index.php/Glossary:Area_sampling
 2. Data Collection Method (Define each)

Direct methods of data collection involve collecting new data for a specific study. This type of data is known as primary
data.

 Survey- involves collecting information from every unit in the population (a census), or from a subset of units
(a sample) from the population.
 Respondent- provides data about oneself as a unit, or as a representative of another unit in a population.

Methods of direct data collection include:

 Surveys administered through the use of an interviewer

 Surveys which are self-enumerated (the information written or entered directly by the respondent)
 In depth interviews or focus groups to provide the opportunity for discussion and elaboration for collecting more
detailed information about a particular issue or issues
 Observational studies in which data are gathered through the direct observation of the population or sample

Indirect methods of data collection involve sourcing and accessing existing data that were not originally collected for the
purpose of the study. This type of data is known as secondary data.

Administrative data are collected as part of the day to day processes and record keeping of organizations. Administrative
data, such as historical data or public records, include the ff:

 School enrolments
 Hospital admissions
 Records of births, deaths, and marriages

Experimental data collection

 Commonly used in sciences such as sociology and psychology, physics, chemistry, biology and medicine etc.
 Is a systematic and scientific approach to research in which the researcher manipulates one or more variables, and
controls and measures any change in other variables.

Observational data collection

 Is a systematic way to collect data by observing people in natural situations or settings. The researcher does not
use control groups or assign treatments.
 Observation allows researchers to create and observe actual situations. For example, instead of using data to try
and predict what will happen when consumers pass a large product display, observation can gather actual results.
 Is ideal for situations in which nonverbal communication is important for complete research.
 Provides a more reliable measurement of actual behavior than self-reported metrics.

Registration

 Refers to continuous, permanent, compulsory recording of the occurrence of vital events together with certain
identifying or descriptive characteristics concerning them, as provided through the civil code, laws or regulations
of each country.
 Register- A database containing information on a complete group of units.

Census data collection

 Called as a Complete Enumeration Survey Method wherein each and every item in the universe is selected for
the data collection.
 Commonly used by the government in connection with the national population, housing census, agriculture
census, etc. where the vast knowledge about these fields is required.
 Can be applied in a situation where the separate data for every unit in the population is to be collected, such that
the separate action for each is taken. For example, the preparation of the voter’s list for election purposes, income
tax assessment, recruitment of personnel, etc. are some of the areas where the census method is adopted.

Sample Data Collection

 A statistical method wherein a certain group of representative items is selected from the universe, called as a
sample, on the basis of which the conclusion for the entire population is drawn.
 Data are collected from few representative items of the universe that best describes the characteristics of the
population.
 Purpose of the sampling is to draw inference about the population by studying a small part of it, which is more
convenient and less costly.
Sources:

https://www.abs.gov.au/websitedbs/a3121120.nsf/home/statistical+language+-+data+sources

https://www.statisticshowto.datasciencecentral.com/data-collection-methods/

https://explorable.com/experimental-research

https://humansofdata.atlan.com/2018/02/how-when-collect-observational-data/

https://ec.europa.eu/eurostat/statistics-explained/index.php/Beginners:Statistical_concept_-_Survey,_census_and_register

https://stats.oecd.org/glossary/detail.asp?ID=3106

https://businessjargons.com/census-method.html

https://businessjargons.com/sampling.html