Ways and Means of Collecting Data

Flashcards covering key vocabulary terms related to sampling concepts and research methods.

Sampling

A method of acquiring representatives of a certain population to gain and determine parameters of the whole group.

Population

A term used in research that denotes a huge group of people from which a sample can be chosen.

Sampling Frame

The list of members of the population that the researcher wants to generalize findings about.

Sample Size

Refers to how small or big the sample is; it should represent the population well.

Probability Sampling

A sampling method that is bias-free due to the use of randomization.

Non-Probability Sampling

A sampling technique that is prone to bias due to the pre-selection of respondents.

Heterogeneity of the Population

A population composed of individuals with varied capabilities and characteristics.

Simple-Random Sampling

A method where the selection of respondents is based purely on chance.

Systematic Sampling

A probability sampling scheme where sample members are chosen according to a random starting point and a fixed interval.

Stratified Sampling

A sampling method that divides the sample into sub-groups for analysis.

Cluster Sampling

A technique that chooses respondents in clusters rather than separate individuals.

Quota Sampling

A non-probability sampling technique that selects specific samples that correspond to the population characteristics.

Voluntary Sampling

Choosing samples who are willing to participate as respondents.

Purposive Sampling

Selecting respondents deemed to have a good background and knowledge about the study.

Availability Sampling

Choosing easily found and communicative respondents.

Snowball Sampling

A method used when respondents are difficult to locate, where existing participants help find others.

Research Instruments

Measurement tools designed to acquire data and information on a topic from research subjects.

Surveys

Self-administered research instruments that allow respondents to answer predetermined questions.

Interviews

Face-to-face discussions used to explore views, experiences, and beliefs of participants.

Open-ended Questions

Questions that allow respondents to answer freely without fixed options.

Dichotomous Questions

Questions that have two possible responses, such as yes or no.

Multiple-response Questions

Questions that allow for multiple answers from the respondents.

Matrix Questions

Open-ended questions that task respondents to evaluate several rows or choices.

Contingency Questions

Questions intended for specific respondents based on their previous answers.