Quantative Methods
Estimation and
Inference
Sample - subset of the population.
Sampling - process of obtaining a sample from
the population.
Parameter: A measure that describes a whole
population.
Sample Statistic: A measure that describes a
sample drawn from a population.
Benefits of Sampling:
[Link] time and resources.
[Link] efficient, as testing every
[Link] in a population is often impractical.
Types of Sampling
Methods:
1. Probability Sampling:
Provides equal chance to all population members.
Representative of the population.
For example,
Simple random sampling, Stratified random
sampling
2. Non-Probability Sampling:
Selection depends on factors other than probability.
Non-representative of the population.
Probability sampling is more accurate and reliable.
Probability Sampling
Simple Random Sampling
•Every possible sample of a given size has an equal
chance of selection.
•Systematic sampling - selecting individuals at
equal intervals from a lo list to form a sample of a
desired size.
•Can use a random number table for selection.
•Prone to sampling error.
Stratified Random Sampling
• Population is divided into homogeneous subgroups
• Samples are drawn proportionally from each
subgroup.
• More precise than simple random sampling but
only approximately random.
Cluster Sampling
•Population is divided into clusters; some clusters
are chosen randomly to form a sample.
• Less accurate but more time and cost-efficient
compared to stratified sampling.
•Advantages: Time and cost-efficient.
•Disadvantages: Lower accuracy as a sample may
not fully represent the entire population.
a. One-stage: All members of chosen clusters are
selected.
[Link]-stage: Subsamples are randomly selected
from chosen clusters.
Non-Probability
Sampling
Depends on researcher's capabilities.
Two types: Convenience and Judgmental
Sampling.
[Link]: Selection based on accessibility.
b. Judgmental: Elements picked based on
researcher's knowledge.
• Advantages and disadvantages of.
•Convenience: cost & time efficient but limited
level of sample accuracy.
•Judgmental: researchers may select a more
accurate representative sample, but sample may
not represent the entire population