Chapter 2 — Sampling Techniques
Key Concepts Quick Recap
| Sampling Method | Process | Best Used When |
|---|---|---|
| Simple Random Sampling (SRS) | Each member has equal probability; lottery/random number table | Homogeneous population |
| Stratified Random Sampling | Divide into strata; random sample from each | Heterogeneous population with known subgroups |
| Systematic Sampling | Every kth element (k = N/n) | Population arranged in a list/order |
| Cluster Sampling | Divide into clusters; select some clusters entirely | Population in natural groups (villages, schools) |
| Purposive (Judgment) Sampling | Researcher selects based on judgment | Expert opinion, qualitative research |
| Quota Sampling | Fixed quotas per subgroup | Market research, opinion polls |
I. Choose the Best Answer (MCQs)
1. In systematic sampling, if population size N = 1000 and sample size n = 50, the sampling interval k is: (a) 50 (b) 20 (c) 100 (d) 10
2. Stratified random sampling is preferred when: (a) Population is homogeneous (b) Population is heterogeneous with known subgroups (c) Population is very small (d) Census is possible
3. In lottery method of sampling: (a) Larger units have higher probability (b) Each unit has equal probability of selection (c) Only a fixed interval is selected (d) Clusters are selected
4. Sampling error can be reduced by: (a) Using purposive sampling (b) Increasing sample size (c) Reducing sample size (d) Using quota sampling
5. Census (complete enumeration) differs from sampling in that: (a) Census is faster (b) Census covers all units of the population (c) Census has more sampling error (d) Census uses random numbers
6. Cluster sampling is efficient when: (a) Each cluster is heterogeneous internally (b) Population is small (c) All clusters are identical (d) Precise estimates are not needed
7. Non-sampling errors arise due to: (a) Sample size being too small (b) Measurement errors, recording errors, non-response (c) Random variation in selection (d) Using stratified sampling
II. Short Answer Questions
Common Mistakes
- Confusing systematic sampling (every kth element) with stratified sampling (groups then random).
- Thinking census has no error — census has no SAMPLING error but can have non-sampling errors.
- Forgetting k = N/n (not n/N) in systematic sampling.
Exam Checklist
- SRS: equal probability, lottery method, random number table.
- Stratified: heterogeneous population, proportionate vs disproportionate allocation.
- Systematic: k = N/n; select random start, then every kth.
- Cluster: natural groups selected entirely; efficient when clusters are heterogeneous.
- Sampling error = σ/√n (reduces as n increases).
- Non-sampling error: measurement, recording, non-response (not reduced by larger sample).
