Statistics Sampling Methods & Survey Design 3

Question 1

The margin of error in a survey estimate is primarily determined by which two factors?

Accepted Answer

Sample size and confidence level

Answer

The margin of error decreases as sample size increases and widens as the confidence level increases, making both factors central to its calculation.

Question 2

In quota sampling, how does a researcher select participants?

Accepted Answer

To fill predetermined numerical quotas for specific subgroups

Answer

Quota sampling sets target numbers for particular subgroups (e.g., 50 men, 50 women) and then selects individuals non-randomly until each quota is filled.

Question 3

Which sampling technique involves progressively narrowing a sample through multiple stages of random selection?

Accepted Answer

Multistage sampling

Answer

Multistage sampling applies random selection at each of several successive stages — for example, randomly selecting states, then counties, then households.

Question 4

Snowball sampling is most appropriate when the researcher is studying:

Accepted Answer

A rare or hard-to-reach population without an available sampling frame

Answer

Snowball sampling relies on existing participants to recruit additional participants, making it useful for hidden or difficult-to-access populations where no sampling frame exists.

Question 5

Post-survey weighting is applied primarily to:

Accepted Answer

Correct for over- or under-representation of certain groups relative to the population

Answer

Weighting adjusts each respondent's contribution so that the final sample better reflects the true population distribution on key variables such as age, gender, or ethnicity.

Statistics Practice Test

Statistics Practice Test

Statistics Sampling Methods & Survey Design 3