RM Sampling AQA GCSE Psychology

The purpose of a sample is to

• Draw conclusions about the sample

• Study lots of people

• Generalise results to the population

• Study a small group of people

Answer explanation

The purpose of a sample is to generalise results to the population, allowing researchers to make inferences about the larger group based on the characteristics of the sample.

"The group of interest to the researcher" is the definition of:

• A sample

• A stratified sample

• A target population

• A participant

Answer explanation

The target group of interest to the researcher is defined as a population, which includes all the individuals or items with the characteristics the researcher wants to study.

Choosing every nth name from a list is the method for selecting

• a random sample

• an opportunity sample

• a stratified sample

• a systematic sample

Answer explanation

Choosing every nth name from a list is the method for selecting a systematic sample.

A strength of random sampling is

• it's an unbiased method

• it's easy and convenient

• it identifies subgroups in the population

• it does not need a list of population members

Answer explanation

A strength of random sampling is that it's an unbiased method, ensuring that each member of the population has an equal chance of being selected.

A researcher was interested in whether gender affected the likelihood of help being offered in an emergency situation. She designed a study where a confederate (actor) would stand next to a 'broken down' car on the side of the road to see if people would stop to help. The car had the bonnet up and the hazard lights on to give the impression it had broken down. Identify the sampling method used

• Random Sampling

• Opportunity Sampling

• Systematic Sampling

• Stratified Sampling

Answer explanation

The sampling method used in the study where a confederate stands next to a 'broken down' car is Opportunity Sampling, as individuals passing by have the opportunity to participate in the study.

What is a strength of stratified sampling

• It's the most representative method

• It's quick and convenient

• It's the cheapest method

• Everyone has an equal opportunity of being selected

Answer explanation

Stratified sampling is the most representative method because it ensures that each subgroup in the population is adequately represented in the sample, leading to more accurate results.

Which sampling method ensures that every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected?

• Random Sampling

• Opportunity Sampling

• Systematic Sampling

• Stratified Sampling

Answer explanation

Random Sampling ensures that every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected.

What is a disadvantage of opportunity sampling?

• It is time-consuming

• It may not be representative of the population

• It requires a list of the entire population

• It is difficult to implement

Answer explanation

Opportunity sampling may not be representative of the population because it relies on the availability of subjects, leading to potential bias and lack of diversity in the sample.

What are two disadvantages of random sampling?

• It can be time-consuming

• By chance, it may not be representative of the population

• It leads to sampling bias

• It is unethical

Answer explanation

Random sampling requires a list of the entire population, which can be a disadvantage as it may not always be feasible or available.

Which sampling method involves dividing the population into subgroups and then taking a matching ratio from each subgroup?

• Random Sampling

• Opportunity Sampling

• Systematic Sampling

• Stratified Sampling

Answer explanation

Stratified Sampling involves dividing the population into subgroups and then taking a sample from each subgroup.