Simple Saturation

Random Sampling
Sampling
Group members: Abigail
Wallace, Gabrielle Lloyd, K'La-
Marie Thompson, Kevianna
Kelly and Zenovia Smith
23/09/2024
 Objectives
Differentiating between Simple
random sampling and
saturation sampling
The different steps taken for
each sampling method.
Listing the advantages of each
sampling method
 Sampling
Sampling is a process used in statistical analysis where a
subset of data is selected from a larger population. This smaller
group, called a sample, is used to make inferences or
generalizations about the entire population.
Sampling is crucial because it allows researchers to conduct
studies more efficiently and cost-effectively without surveying
an entire population.
 Sampling
Imagine you want to study the average height of students in a
university. Instead of measuring every student, you could use
simple random sampling to select a group of students and
measure their heights. The average height of this sample can
then be used to estimate the average height of all students at
the university.

Today we’ll be discussing two types of sampling, simple

random sampling and saturation sampling.
Simple Random Sampling
Simple random sampling is a type of
probability sampling where each member of
the population has an equal chance of being
selected. This method ensures that the
sample represents the population without
bias.
 Step-by-step guide
When conducting simple random sampling, certain steps need to be followed:

Define the population:

Clearly identify the population you want to study. This population should include all individuals or
elements that you are interested in.

Determine the Sample Size:

Decide how many individuals or elements you need in your sample. The sample size should be large
enough to provide accurate results but manageable for your study.

Assign Numbers to Each Member:

Assign a unique number to each member of the population. This can be done using a random number
generator or manually.

Random Selection:
Use a random number generator or a lottery method to select the sample. Each member of the
population should have an equal chance of being selected.
 ADVANTAGES
Simple Random Sampling reduces bias by giving each member of
the population an equal chance of being selected.
Randomization helps reduce the impact of confounding variables,
leading to high internal validity. With a sufficiently large sample
size, the results can be generalized to the larger population,
ensuring high external validity.
Simple random sampling is straightforward and easy to implement,
especially with the help of random number generators.
Simple random sampling also allows researchers to make accurate
statistical inferences about the population based on the sample
data.
 EXAMPLE
Imagine you want to study the dietary habits of students at a university. Instead of
surveying every student, you can use simple random sampling to select a group of
students.

Define the Population- Let’s say the university has 10,000 students.
Determine the Sample Size- You decide to survey 200 students to get a representative
sample
Assign Numbers to Each Member- Student 1, Student 2, etc.
Random Selection- Use a random number generator to select 200 unique numbers
between 1 and 10,000. Suppose the random number generator selects the following
numbers: 5, 23, 78, 102, …, 9998. These numbers correspond to the students who will be
included in your sample.

By following these steps, you ensure that every student has an equal chance of being
selected, which helps to create a representative sample of the entire student population.
This method reduces bias and allows you to make accurate inferences about the dietary
habits of all students at the university based on the data collected from your sample.
Simple Random Sampling
 Saturation Sampling
Saturation sampling is a qualitative research
method that helps us gather comprehensive
insights until no new information emerges.
How does researchers know when they’ve
captured the full range of perspectives?
Saturation sampling works by selecting
participants until the researchers feel
confident that they have reached a point
where consistent themes emerge.
 Step-by-step guide
Here is a brief step-by-step guide to consider when conducting saturation sampling:
Initial Sampling: Start with a small sample size

Data Collection: Collect data through methods such as interviews, focus groups, or observations.

Analysis: Analyze the data to identify emerging themes, patterns, and insights.

Continue Sampling: Continue to add participants and collect data until no new themes or information
emerge.

Assess Saturation: Determine if new data is still providing new themes or insights. If not, you have likely
reached saturation.

Stop Data Collection: Once you reach a point where additional data does not bring new insights, you can
stop collecting data.
 ADVANTAGES
Saturation sampling ensures that all relevant themes and insights
are captured, providing a thorough understanding of the research
topic.
By continuing data collection until no new information emerges,
researchers gain a deep and nuanced understanding of the subject
matter.
Saturation sampling is efficient. Once saturation is reached, further
data collection is unnecessary, saving time and resources
Achieving saturation enhances the validity and reliability of the
findings, as it confirms that the data collected is sufficient to
represent the population.
 ADVANTAGES
Saturation sampling often results in rich, detailed data that can
provide valuable insights into complex phenomena.
This method allows researchers to adapt their data collection
process based on emerging themes and insights, making it a flexible
approach.
 EXAMPLE
In a study on patient experiences in healthcare, researchers might continue interviewing
patients until they notice that no new themes are emerging from the interviews. This
ensures that the data collected is comprehensive and covers all aspects of the research
question.

Conduct in-depth interviews with the initial 10 patients.

Look for common themes in the patient interviews, such as satisfaction with care,
communication with doctors, etc.
Interview additional patients, say another 5-10, and analyze their responses.
If the last few interviews do not reveal any new themes, you may have reached
saturation.
After interviewing 20 patients, if no new themes are emerging, you can conclude that
saturation has been achieved.
 Simple Random Sampling Saturation Sampling

Ideal for quantitative research where Ideal for qualitative research where
the goal is to generalize findings to a the goal is to explore complex
larger population. phenomena and gain deep insights.
Commonly used in surveys, Commonly used in interviews, focus
experiments, and observational studies. groups, and case studies.

Reduces bias by giving each member of Ensures comprehensive data

the population an equal chance of being collection by continuing until no
selected. new information emerges
Not suitable for qualitative research Not suitable for quantitative
where depth and detail are needed. research where statistical
generalization is needed.
 Conclusion
M E MBE R Simple random sampling is a probability sampling
R E
method ideal for quantitative research, offering high
validity and reduced bias.
Saturation sampling is a qualitative method that
ensures comprehensive data collection and deep
insights by continuing until no new information
emerges.
The choice of sampling method depends on the
research goals, the nature of the study, and the type of
data needed.
Using the appropriate sampling method enhances the
validity, reliability, and overall quality of the research
findings.
 Reference
Dovetail. (n.d.). Data saturation. Retrieved from
https://dovetail.com/research/data-saturation/

Scribbr. (n.d.). Simple random sampling. Retrieved from

https://www.scribbr.com/methodology/simple-random-
sampling/