Stats Performance Task

A.
Sampling Methods
1. Probability Sampling
This method involves randomly selecting elements from a population, where each element has a known, non-
zero probability of being selected. This ensures that every member of the population has an equal chance of
being included in the sample.
Examples:
Simple Random Sampling
A researcher assigns each member of a population a unique number and then uses a random number
generator to select a subset of those numbers, corresponding to the sample size.
Stratified Sampling
Dividing the population into homogeneous subgroups (strata) based on certain characteristics and then
randomly sampling from each subgroup.
For example, a survey might be stratified by age groups.
Systematic Sampling
Selecting every nth member from a list of the population after a random start.
For instance, every 5th person in a customer database might be selected for a survey.
Cluster Sampling
Dividing the population into clusters and then randomly selecting entire clusters to be included in the sample.
For example, if studying a population of schools, you might randomly select several schools and survey all
students within those schools.
2. Non-probability Sampling
This method involves selecting elements from a population based on subjective judgment or criteria, rather than
random selection. This can introduce bias into the sample.
Basic Non-probability Sampling:
Haphazard/Accidental Sampling
Selecting the most conveniently available subjects.
For example, interviewing people who happen to be passing by.
Convenience Sampling
Choosing individuals who are easy to reach or readily available.
For example, surveying shoppers in a mall.
Volunteer Sampling
Participants self-select to be part of the sample.
For instance, online surveys where respondents voluntarily participate.
Purposive Sampling
Selecting individuals who meet specific criteria relevant to the research question.
For example, interviewing CEOs of Fortune 500 companies.
Quota Sampling
Setting quotas for different categories of people and then sampling non-randomly from within those quotas.
For instance, ensuring that a certain percentage of the sample is male and a certain percentage is female.
Snowball Sampling
Using existing subjects to recruit further subjects from among their acquaintances.
This is often used in studies of hard-to-reach populations, like drug users or undocumented immigrants.
Reasons for Sampling:

1. Cost-effectiveness: Sampling is often more cost-effective than studying an entire population.
2. Time efficiency: Sampling allows researchers to gather data more quickly than studying an entire population.
3. Feasibility: Sometimes it's simply impractical or impossible to study an entire population due to logistical
constraints.
4. Precision: Sampling can provide sufficiently precise estimates of population characteristics when done correctly.
5. Destructive testing: In cases where testing or analysis would destroy the subject, sampling allows for a subset to
be examined while preserving the rest.
Computing Sample Size
1. Using a Formula
One of the most common ways to calculate sample size is by using a formula based on the desired level of
confidence, margin of error, and population size. The formula commonly used for calculating sample size for
estimating population proportion (p) is: Where:
•𝑛 = required sample size

•𝑍 = Z-score corresponding to the desired level of confidence (e.g., for a 95% confidence level, 𝑍≈1.96Z≈1.96)
•𝑝 = estimated proportion of the population that has a particular characteristic (if unknown, usually set to 0.5 for
maximum variability)
•𝐸= desired margin of error (expressed as a proportion)
2. Using Online Calculators or Software:

Many online calculators and statistical software packages offer tools for computing sample size. These tools often
provide options for different study designs, statistical tests, and parameters. Researchers can input their desired
level of confidence, margin of error, population size, and other relevant information, and the tool will calculate the
recommended sample size accordingly. This approach is convenient and saves time, especially for complex study
designs or when multiple factors need to be considered.

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Reasons for Sampling:

Computing Sample Size

•𝑛 = required sample size

2. Using Online Calculators or Software:

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