The Sampling Methods - Assignment Example

The main difference between the two types of sampling methods concerns the basic assumptions that researchers tend to make when assessing the nature of the population under study. In probability sampling, researchers consider that every item that is under a specific study has an equal chance of being selected. However, in non-probability sampling method, researchers assume that various characteristics of what they need to study are distributed into a large extent (Gravetter & Forzano, 2011).

The most common type of probability method is simple random sample. This method is appropriate where a researcher has an equal chance of selecting each unit of a population required for the study. The other type of probability method is systematic sample. The method entails collecting of various samples from specific lists of the units required in the study (Gravetter & Forzano, 2011). There are five common types of non-probability sampling that researchers tend to use when carrying out a study.

One of these types is known as quota sampling. In this particular method, the main aim that researchers target is the groups focused have to be proportional with the population being studied. The other type of non-probability method is convenience sampling. In this method, researchers manage to include various units in the sample that are easily to access. The other type is purposive sampling. This method is where a researcher relies on his own judgment in selecting various units necessary for the study.

The other type is self-selection sampling. This method entails several units or cases to choose on their own to participate in the study. The fifth type of non-probability method is snow sampling. This method is appropriate when the population necessary to participate in the study is hidden or the researcher cannot manage to find it in an easy way (Gravetter & Forzano, 2011). Which types of sampling methods are most commonly seen in nursing research reports? The most common types of sampling methods seen in nursing research reports are those related to non-probability sampling.

Most of these methods include, purposive sampling, quota sampling and snowball sampling (Gravetter & Forzano, 2011). This methods support qualitative research where nurses are mostly concerned with the process of the study rather than the outcome (Gravetter & Forzano, 2011).Discuss 4 factors that need to be considered in determining the sample size for a study. The following are the factors to consider in determining the sample size for a particular study:Purpose of the study: While considering the purpose of the study, a researcher is able to figure out which units of population to use (Gravetter & Forzano, 2011).

Population size: A researcher ought to determine the number of units of the population is required to provide the necessary information for the benefit of the study (Gravetter & Forzano, 2011).