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Unit 1 Sampling Theory and Techniques

Unit Sampling Theory and

1 Techniques

Learning Outcomes

After completing this unit, leaners will be able to;

◆ learn about population and sampling

◆ discuss various theories of sampling
◆ gain insights on the sampling techniques
◆ differentiate random and non-random sampling techniques

Background

Imagine you want to know the opinion of all the students in your school about
their favourite subjects. The entire group of students is called the population. However,
interviewing every student would be time-consuming and impractical. Instead, you
can select a smaller group of students, called a sample, and gather their opinions. By
analysing the data collected from sample, you can make educated assumptions about the
preferences of the entire population. Proper understanding of sampling theories helps
researchers to select an appropriate sample that reflects the population’s characteristics.
It allows researchers to gather information efficiently and draw meaningful conclusions.

Keywords

Population, Sample, Random Sampling, Non-Random Sampling

Discussion

2.1.1 Population

◆ Aggregate of units Population refers to the entire group or collection of subjects
relevant to a particular study. It represents the target group to
which the study’s findings are meant to be applied. For instance,

52 SGOU - SLM -MCom Research Methodology