Sampling Techniques & Participant Recruitment Flashcards

A researcher increases the margin of error from ±3% to ±5% in their sample size calculation. What happens to the required sample size?

Answer: It decreases substantially

Sample size is inversely related to the square of the margin of error; allowing a larger margin of error significantly reduces the number of respondents needed.

Which recruitment incentive practice is generally considered ethical and effective for increasing survey participation?

Answer: Providing small unconditional prepaid incentives regardless of participation

Research shows unconditional prepaid incentives (provided before or alongside the survey invitation) increase response rates without compromising voluntariness.

In probability proportional to size (PPS) sampling, larger clusters are assigned:

Answer: Higher probability of selection to ensure adequate representation

PPS sampling assigns selection probability proportional to cluster size, so larger clusters have a higher chance of selection, which can reduce variance in estimates.

A study finds that early responders to a mail survey hold significantly different opinions than late responders. This pattern is used to assess:

Answer: Potential nonresponse bias using the continuum of resistance assumption

The continuum of resistance model assumes late responders approximate non-responders, so comparing early vs. late responses can indicate the likely direction and magnitude of nonresponse bias.

Which screening question technique is used in recruitment to verify that a potential participant meets eligibility criteria?

Answer: Screener questionnaire

A screener questionnaire filters potential participants by asking qualifying questions about characteristics (age, occupation, experience) to confirm eligibility before full study enrollment.

When a sampling frame contains duplicate entries for the same individual, failing to correct this will result in:

Answer: Overcoverage, giving those individuals a higher probability of selection

Duplicate entries increase the effective probability of selection for affected individuals, causing overcoverage and biasing estimates toward their characteristics.

A qualitative researcher conducting grounded theory continues recruitment until no new themes emerge from new participants. This principle is called:

Answer: Theoretical saturation

Theoretical saturation is the point in qualitative research when additional data collection yields no new codes or themes, signaling sufficient sample adequacy.