Sampling and Data Collection Quiz

What is the definition of a population in research?

• The method used to collect data

• A subset of individuals selected for a study

• The characteristics shared by a sample

• The total group of people or entities from whom information is required

Answer explanation

In research, a population refers to the total group of people or entities from whom information is required. This definition distinguishes it from a sample, which is a subset of the population.

What is the difference between target population and accessible population?

• Target population is only theoretical, accessible population is practical

• Target population is a sample, accessible population is the entire group

• Target population is the entire group, accessible population is the part we can reach

• Both terms mean the same thing

Answer explanation

The target population refers to the entire group of interest in a study, while the accessible population is the portion of that group that researchers can realistically reach and study. Thus, the correct choice highlights this distinction.

Which sampling method gives each unit an equal chance of being chosen?

• Non-probability sampling

• Probability sampling

• Purposive sampling

• Convenience sampling

Answer explanation

Probability sampling ensures that every unit in the population has an equal chance of being selected, making it a fair and unbiased method. In contrast, non-probability, purposive, and convenience sampling do not guarantee equal selection chances.

What is a key characteristic of a representative sample?

• It must match the population characteristics

• It does not need to be random

• It must be larger than the target population

• It can be selected based on convenience

Answer explanation

A key characteristic of a representative sample is that it must match the population characteristics. This ensures that the sample accurately reflects the diversity and traits of the entire population, leading to valid conclusions.

What type of survey collects data at one point in time?

• Longitudinal survey

• Cross-sectional survey

• Cohort study

• Before and after survey

Answer explanation

A cross-sectional survey collects data at one point in time, providing a snapshot of a population. In contrast, longitudinal surveys track changes over time, making cross-sectional the correct choice for this question.

Which type of question allows respondents to express their thoughts freely?

• Ranking questions

• Closed-ended questions

• Open-ended questions

• Multiple choice questions

Answer explanation

Open-ended questions allow respondents to express their thoughts freely, providing detailed insights. In contrast, ranking, closed-ended, and multiple choice questions limit responses to predefined options.

What is the purpose of a Likert scale in surveys?

• To rank preferences

• To collect demographic information

• To measure the degree of agreement or disagreement

• To categorize respondents by age

Answer explanation

The Likert scale is designed to measure the degree of agreement or disagreement with a statement, allowing for nuanced responses rather than simple yes/no answers.

Which sampling method is based on the researcher's judgment?

• Stratified sampling

• Purposive sampling

• Accidental sampling

• Random sampling

Answer explanation

Purposive sampling relies on the researcher's judgment to select participants who meet specific criteria, making it distinct from other methods like random sampling, which is based on chance.

What is the main advantage of using telephone surveys?

• They allow for clarification of answers

• They are the cheapest method

• They can be conducted anonymously

• They have the highest response rate

Answer explanation

The main advantage of telephone surveys is that they allow for clarification of answers, enabling interviewers to probe deeper into responses and ensure accurate understanding, which is not possible in many other survey methods.

What does a quasi-experimental design lack compared to a true experimental design?

• Control over variables

• A focus on qualitative data

• Random assignment of participants

• Clear independent and dependent variables

Answer explanation

A quasi-experimental design lacks random assignment of participants, which is a key feature of true experimental designs. This absence can lead to potential biases and confounding variables affecting the results.