Question

Fill in the blank with the CORRECT option.
________ is a non-probabilistic form of sampling that samples cases/participants relevant to research questions. This sampling does not allow the researcher to generalize to a population.

• A. Stratified sampling
• B. Random sampling
• C. Cluster sampling
• D. Purposive sampling

Hint:

Purposive sampling is ideal for qualitative research where specific participants with relevant characteristics are needed, but findings cannot be generalized to a wider population.

Answer 1

The Correct Option is D

Step 1: Understand the types of sampling methods.

Sampling techniques are generally divided into two categories: probabilistic (random) and non-probabilistic (non-random). Non-probabilistic sampling techniques do not allow generalization to the larger population as the sample is not randomly selected.

Step 2: Evaluate the options.

(A) Stratified sampling is a probabilistic method where the population is divided into strata, and random samples are taken from each stratum.
(B) Random sampling is another probabilistic method where each member of the population has an equal chance of being selected.
(C) Cluster sampling is also a probabilistic method where the population is divided into clusters, and some clusters are randomly chosen.
(D) Purposive sampling is a non-probabilistic method where participants are selected based on specific characteristics relevant to the research.
This method does not allow the researcher to generalize findings to the population, making it the correct answer.

Step 3: Conclusion.

Purposive sampling is the only non-probabilistic method listed here, making it the correct answer.