The simple random sampling would ensure a high level of representativeness; but it is time consuming and tedious, since every person in the target would have an equal chance of getting selected. Cluster sampling, on the other hand, would be easy and convenient because every person in the target population would be willing to take part in the activity (University of Hawaii, 2001, p.1). However, it is possible that the members would be different from one another and would have no association, which would lessen the technique’s effectiveness.
Researchers select a target population when using sampling strategy depending on the type of random sampling being used. In random sampling, the whole population would be available for choosing the samples (Changing Minds, 2016). In stratified sampling, only a specific sub-groups would be available for choosing samples (Changing Minds, 2016). In cluster sampling, the population are separated so that the groups are limited (Changing Minds, 2016). Lastly, in systematic sampling, there are representatives available in choosing the samples, such as every 10th person in the 5th street of New York (Changing Minds, 2016).
Research questions play a significant role in choosing the sample because it is based on the question on what sample size is needed in conducting the research, and what sampling method is best to apply to get the best results. The research questions reveal what is the best technique that can be applied to come up with the most random, most authentic results, with the highest degree of representativeness, as well as the convenience to sampling. Research questions should also be as succinct and precise as possible, so that results are authentic.
It is important to have a representative sample because the research questions can only be answered based on the actual case of the representative sample. Without a representative sample, there would be no one or nothing to be used as basis when conducting the research. The number of representatives should be extended to the highest degree possible, since higher number of representatives leads to a more random and authentic result.
References:
Changing Minds. (2016). Choosing a sampling method. Retrieved April 6, 2016 from http://changingminds.org/explanations/research/sampling/choosing_sampling.htm.
McLeod, S. (2014). Psychology perspectives. Simply Psychology. Retrieved April 6, 2016 from http://www.simplypsychology.org/sampling.html.
