Random Sampling

Random sampling, also called probability sampling, is a sampling method that allows for the

randomization of sample selection, each sample has the same probability as other samples to be

selected to serve as a representation of an entire population (Taylor,2023). It ensures that results

obtained from the sample should approximate what would have been obtained if the entire population

had been measured (Shadish et al., 2002).

There are four Random (probability) sampling methods:

Simple random sampling: This is used when the entire population is accessible, and the researchers

have a list of all subjects in this target population (Elfil,2017).

Systematic sampling: Systematic sampling is the selection of specific individuals or members from an

entire population (Taylor,2023).

Stratified sampling: It includes the division of a population into subclasses with distinctions and

variances. This method allows the researcher to make more reliable and informed conclusions

(Taylor,2023).

Cluster sampling: Cluster sampling divides a population into subclasses. Each of the subclasses must

portray comparable characteristics to the selected sample (Taylor,2023).

Example: A college conducts a survey among international students in the Project Management

department, to determine the quality of education. There are 500 international students enrolled in that

department and among them 50 are to be selected for the survey.

The sample size is 50 students, while the population size is 500 students. Among these 500 students any

student can be selected for the survey, which means every student randomly has an equal probability to

get selected for the survey.

Bias
Bias is defined as any tendency which prevents unprejudiced consideration of a question. Bias occurs

when systematic error is introduced into sampling or testing by selecting or encouraging one outcome

or answer over others (Pannucci and Wilkins,2010).

Types of Bias

1. Pretrial bias: Selection bias, Channeling bias

2. Bias during trial: Interviewer bias, Chronology bias, Performance bias, Transfer bias

3. Bias after trial: Citation and Confounding bias

Steps to avoid Pre-trial bias.

• Clearly define risk and outcome, preferably with objective or validated methods. Standardize and blind

data collection (Pannucci and Wilkins,2010).

• Select patients using rigorous criteria to avoid confounding results. Patients should originate from the

same general population. Well designed, prospective studies help to avoid selection bias as outcome is

unknown at time of enrollment (Pannucci and Wilkins,2010)

• Assign patients to study cohorts using rigorous criteria

References

Taylor, S. (2023, March 6). Random Sampling. Corporate Finance Institute.

https://corporatefinanceinstitute.com/resources/data-science/random-sampling/

Elfil, M. (2017). Sampling methods in Clinical Research; an Educational Review. PubMed Central

(PMC). https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/pmc/articles/PMC5325924/

Pannucci, C. J., & Wilkins, E. G. (2010b). Identifying and Avoiding Bias in Research. Plastic and

Reconstructive Surgery, 126(2), 619–625. https://doi.org/10.1097/prs.0b013e3181de24bc

Shadish, W. R., Cook, T. D., & Campbell, D. T. (2002). Experimental and quasi-experimental designs for

generalized causal inference. Cengage Learning: Boston, MA.