There are many different methods through which sampling can be done. Simple Random Sampling is considered to be the ideal sampling method for research, however, paucity of time and money creates the need to opt for other diverse means of sampling.
Probability Methods:
This is a group of methods to be used for sampling as it further opens the opportunities for the most powerful statistical analysis.
The different probability methods are:
- Simple Random Sampling: It suits and works best when the whole population is available.
- Stratified Sampling: This kind of sampling works best in a situation when there are specific sub groups to be investigated and the researcher takes up random sampling within the group.
- Systematic Sampling: This kind of method is workable when a stream of representative people is available.
- Cluster Sampling: It is largely workable when the population groups are separated and the access to all is very difficult to make. The respondents are largely chosen in limited groups.
Quota Methods:
For a specific analysis and more valid results, it is required to decipher the exact number of respondents to be incorporated in the sample. The further sub division of quota sampling is proportionate and non-proportionate quota sampling.
- Proportionate quota sampling: this kind of sampling method works when you know the population distribution across different groups and normal sampling falls short of offering enough minority groups.
- Non proportionate quota sampling: this kind of non-proportionate method works, like the name indicates, when within the minority groups also there is a wide variation in the studied characteristics.
The other methods used for sampling that are applicable in different conditions are Selective Method, Convenience Methods, and Ethnographic Methods etc.