Describing Sample Size

and Sampling Procedure

• Determining the correct sample size and how the
samples are selected are crucial in ensuring the accuracy
and precision of an estimate leading to valid research
findings.
• SAMPLING is securing some of the elements of a
population. An element is a member of a population
who can provide information. A population consists of
the total elements about which you can make
inferences based on the data gathered from a
determined sample size
SAMPLE SIZE DETERMINATION
A sample (n) is a selection of respondents for a
research study to represent the total population (N).
The following are some reasons for the use of
samples:
1. A sample saves time compared to doing a complete
census which requires more time.
2. A sample saves money because it is less costly than
conducting a complete census.
3. A sample allows more particular attention to be
given to a number of elements than when doing a
census.
4. There is a greater error in reporting results of a
census caused by inexperienced interviewers. There is
sampling error in a survey.
5. Some research studies in the industry may only be
performed on a sample of items. For example, testing
the length of time a battery will last.
SLOVIN’s Formula in Determining the Sample Size
The following information is needed to be able to
determine the sample size using the Slovin’s formula
• Population (N) consists of members of a group
that a researcher is interested in studying the
members of a group that usually have common or
similar characteristics.
• Margin of error is the allowable error margin in
research. A confidence interval of 95% gives a margin
of error of 5%; a 98% gives a margin of error of 2%;
a 99% confidence interval gives a 1% margin of error.
Here is the formula:
2
n= N/1+N𝑒
Where: n = sample size
N = total population
e = margin of error
SAMPLING PROCEDURE
Sampling is a formal process of choosing the correct
subgroup called a sample from a population to
participate in a research study. The subgroup shall be
the representative of the large group from where
they where selected. To create a sample, you may
follow any of the following: probability sampling and
non-probability sampling schemes.
PROBABILITY SAMPLING PROCEDURES
The most important characteristic of probability
sampling procedure is the random selection of the
samples. Specifically, each sample (n) or element
from the population (N) has an equal chance of
selection under a given sampling technique. Four
probability sampling procedures are described below:
1. Simple Random Sampling
This is the most frequently used type of
probability sampling technique. This is characterized
by the idea that the chance of selection is the same
for every member of the population.
2. Systematic Random Sampling
It follows specific steps and procedures in doing
the selection of samples.
It requires a list of the elements and every nth
element in the list is drawn for inclusion in the
sample. If for instance, you have a list of 5,000
persons and you need a sample of 500, here are the
steps to follow:
• Divide the number of elements in the population
by the desired sample size. In this case, you divide
5, 000 by 500 which gives a value of 10.
• Choose a random number between one and the value
you obtained from Step 1. In this example, you
choose a number between 1 and 10, let’s say you
choose 5.
• Starting with the number you picked which is 5, you
take every tenth (10th) (from Step 1) and you use 5 as
your starting point. Thus, you have to select the
samples whose numbers are 5, 15, 25, 35, 45 and so
on you reach the desired sample size of 500.
3. Stratified Random Sampling
Here, the population is first divided into two or
more mutually exclusive categories based on your
variables of interest in the research study. The
population is organized into homogenous subsets
before drawing the samples. The population is divided
into subpopulation called strata.
4. Cluster Sampling
Most large scale surveys use cluster sampling
method. It is used when the target respondents in a
research study is spread across geographical location.
Here, the population is divided into groups called
clusters which are heterogenous in nature and are
mutually exclusive. A random sampling technique is
used on relevant clusters to be included in the study.
NON-PROBABILITY SAMPLING PROCEDURES
This is considered if the probability sampling is not
applicable.
1. Convenience Sampling
This is a method of selecting samples that are
available and are capable of participating in a research
of participating in a research study on a current issue.
This method is sometimes haphazard or availability
sampling.
2. Snowball Sampling
It is a technique where the researcher identifies a
key informant about a research of interest and then
ask that respondent to refer or identify another
respondent who can participate in the study. The
identification of the samples follows a multiplier
effect, that is, one person is asked to refer the
researcher to another respondent and so on.
3. Purposive Sampling
It is sometimes called judgmental or subjective
sampling employs a procedure in which samples
are chosen for a special purpose. It may involve
members of a limited group of population
4. Quota Sampling
This is done by gathering a representative sample
from a group based on certain characteristics of the
population chosen by the researcher which is usually
divided into specific groups.
The main difference of it with stratified random
sampling is that quota sampling uses non-random
selection.