PRC Sampling Techniques & Participant Recruitment 2

Question 1

A researcher wants to ensure that rural, suburban, and urban populations are proportionally represented in a national survey. Which sampling method is most appropriate?

Accepted Answer

Stratified random sampling

Answer

Stratified random sampling divides the population into subgroups (strata) and samples proportionally from each, ensuring representation of all geographic categories.

Question 2

In cluster sampling, what is the primary unit of random selection?

Accepted Answer

Naturally occurring groups

Answer

Cluster sampling randomly selects naturally occurring groups (clusters) such as schools or neighborhoods, then surveys all or a sample of members within selected clusters.

Question 3

Which condition makes snowball sampling particularly useful?

Accepted Answer

The population is hard to reach or identify

Answer

Snowball sampling is ideal when the target population is hidden or difficult to identify, such as undocumented immigrants or illicit drug users, where participants refer others.

Question 4

A sampling frame that excludes certain segments of the target population will most likely result in:

Accepted Answer

Coverage error

Answer

Coverage error occurs when the sampling frame does not include all members of the target population, causing systematic exclusion and potential bias.

Question 5

What distinguishes purposive sampling from probability sampling?

Accepted Answer

Purposive sampling relies on researcher judgment to select participants

Answer

Purposive sampling involves deliberate selection of participants based on specific characteristics deemed relevant to the research, rather than random selection.

(PRC) Professional Researcher Certification Practice Test

(PRC) Professional Researcher Certification Practice Test

PRC Sampling Techniques & Participant Recruitment 2