Probability sampling
Probability sampling is a technique that involves selecting representatives randomly from a population. This form of random selection offers each and everyone within the population for the research, equal chances to represent the group. This random selection ensures that the sample collected almost represents the population entirely; that is, more like all the desired and undesired qualities are represented in the sample in the same proportion as in the population. This sampling method has four types with distinct properties and validity. These include random cluster sampling, stratified random selection, systematic random selection, and multi-sampling.
The accuracy of this sampling method depends on the non-zero chance that is offered to a population of interest. Since there are no criteria or some rules used, the random non-zero chance eliminates the biases in the data that would have come up. By reducing biases, one rapidly increase the trustworthy and the validity of the polls from the research. The accuracy of the data is boosted by the fact that by knowing the survey population, one can calculate the probability of one being picked to be part of the survey sample. The accuracy of this technique is increased as the population size increases. When the population size is small, it will not be inclusive of all the traits or the variables to be surveyed. Besides, human judgment is hardly applied in this technique, which further minimizes the biases in selection. This technique enables researchers to make references easily to the population frame, unlike non-probability sampling.
Even though this technique is sometimes redundant in its application, the method is very cost-effective and saves time. By randomly making selections, the job is half done, making it cheaper, unlike applying some criteria to identify the appropriate sample. Developing a survey sample saves time that would be used to approach everyone in the population size since they represent the whole population. This technique does not involve any complex and lengthy procedures. It can, therefore, be used with even non-technical people to survey all the research designs. However, it is advisable to use non-probability sampling in small population size and qualitative research designs.