Bangladesh University
Bangladesh University
Bangladesh University
Subject code:2201
Subject name: social statistics
Assignment name: Application of statistics in sociology -1
Submitted to
Umme Rezowana
Lecture
Bangladesh University
Department of sociology
Submitted by
Name: Rabiul Islam
Roll:2017116366016
Batch:36th
Dep: sociology
Date of submission :9/12/20
Assignment on sampling
Definition: A sample is defined as a smaller set of data that a researcher chooses
or selects from a larger population by using a pre-defined selection method. These
elements are known as sample points, sampling units, or observations. Creating a
sample is an efficient method of conducting research. In most cases, it is
impossible or costly and time-consuming to research the whole population. Hence,
examining the sample provides insights that the researcher can apply to the entire
population.
For example, if a cell-phone manufacturer wants to conduct a feature research
study among students in US Universities. If the researcher is looking for features
that the students use, features they would like to see, and the price that they are
willing to pay, an in-depth research study has to be conducted. This step is
imperative to understand the features that need development, the features that
require an upgraded, pricing of the device, and the go-to-market strategy. In
2016/17 alone, there were 24.7 million students enrolled in universities across the
US. It is impossible to research all of these students; the time spent would create
the new device redundant, and the money spent on development would render the
study useless. Creating a sample of universities by geographical location and
further creating a sample of these students from these universities provides a large
enough number of students for research
Advantages of sampling
Sampling ensures convenience, collection of intensive and exhaustive data,
suitability in limited resources and better rapport. In addition to this, sampling has
the following advantages also.
Some populations are so large that their characteristics could not be measured.
Before the measurement has been completed, the population would have changed.
But the process of sampling makes it possible to arrive at generalizations by
studying the variables within a relatively small proportion of the population.
5. Organization of convenience
Organizational problems involved in sampling are very few. Since sample is of a
small size, vast facilities are not required. Sampling is therefore economical in
respect of resources. Study of samples involves less space and equipment.
Disadvantages of sampling
The reliability of the sample depends upon the appropriateness of the sampling
method used. The purpose of sampling theory is to make sampling more efficient.
But the real difficulties lie in selection, estimation and administration of samples.
Chances of bias
Difficulties in selecting truly a representative sample
Need for subject specific knowledge
changeability of sampling units
impossibility of sampling.
1. Chances of bias
The serious limitation of the sampling method is that it involves biased selection
and thereby leads us to draw erroneous conclusions. Bias arises when the method
of selection of sample employed is faulty. Relative small samples properly selected
may be much more reliable than large samples poorly selected.
2. Difficulties in selecting a truly representative sample
Difficulties in selecting a truly representative sample produces reliable and
accurate results only when they are representative of the whole group. Selection of
a truly representative sample is difficult when the phenomena under study are of a
complex nature. Selecting good samples is difficult.
Some of the cases of sample may not cooperate with the researcher and some
others may be inaccessible. Because of these problems, all the cases may not be
taken up. The selected cases may have to be replaced by other cases. Changeability
of units stands in the way of results of the study.
5. Impossibility of sampling
Deriving a representative sample is di6icult, when the universe is too small or too
heterogeneous. In this case, census study is the only alternative. Moreover, in
studies requiring a very high standard of accuracy, the sampling method may be
unsuitable. There will be chances of errors even if samples are drawn most
carefully.