Q. What is sampling in the context of social research? Discuss different forms of sampling with their relative advantages and disadvantages.

Model Answer:

Sampling in Social Research

Sampling is the methodological process of selecting a representative subset of individuals or units from a larger population to make inferences about the whole group. It is fundamental in social research when studying entire populations is impractical due to constraints of time, cost, and resources. The primary goal is ensuring the selected sample accurately reflects population characteristics, allowing for valid generalizations.

1. Probability Sampling

This method ensures every unit has a known, non-zero chance of selection, forming the cornerstone of quantitative research.

Simple Random Sampling (SRS):
– Every member has equal selection chance
– Advantage: Highly representative, free from researcher bias—the gold standard for generalizability
– Disadvantage: Requires complete sampling frame, often unavailable or impractical

Stratified Sampling:
– Population divided into distinct strata (age, class, gender) before random selection
– Advantage: Guarantees representation of key subgroups, more precise than SRS
– Disadvantage: Complex implementation, requires prior knowledge of population composition

Cluster Sampling:
– Selecting groups/clusters rather than individuals
– Advantage: Cost-effective for geographically dispersed populations
– Disadvantage: Higher sampling error than SRS

Systematic Sampling:
– Selecting every nth element from ordered list
– Advantage: Simple execution, ensures even coverage
– Disadvantage: Risk of periodicity bias

2. Non-Probability Sampling

Selection based on researcher judgment or convenience; probability of selection unknown.

Convenience Sampling:
– Participants selected based on easy accessibility
– Advantage: Quick, inexpensive, useful for pilot studies
– Disadvantage: High bias susceptibility, limited generalizability (e.g., interviewing shoppers at single mall)

Snowball Sampling:
– Initial participants refer other subjects
– Advantage: Effective for hidden/marginalized populations (undocumented immigrants, subcultures)
– Disadvantage: Network bias, non-representative

Purposive Sampling:
– Deliberate selection based on specific characteristics
– Advantage: Targets information-rich cases
– Disadvantage: Researcher bias, limited generalizability

Conclusion:
The choice of sampling method depends on research objectives, resources, and desired generalizability. While probability sampling ensures statistical rigor for quantitative research, non-probability methods remain valuable for exploratory and qualitative studies.