Question 1: Define 'sampling' in the context of sociological research.

Answer: Sampling is the process of selecting a group of people from a larger population to represent that population in a research study.

Question 2: What is a random sample, and how does it help ensure fairness in research?

Answer: A random sample is one where every individual in the population has an equal chance of being selected. It helps ensure fairness by reducing bias and making the sample more representative of the whole population.

Question 3: Describe one advantage and one disadvantage of using a quota sample.

Answer: An advantage of quota sampling is that it ensures specific groups are represented in the sample. A disadvantage is that it can introduce bias because the researcher chooses participants based on convenience or judgment.

Question 4: Explain the difference between probability sampling and non-probability sampling.

Answer: Probability sampling involves methods where every member of the population has a known chance of being selected, such as random sampling. Non-probability sampling does not give everyone an equal chance, and samples are often chosen based on convenience or judgment.

Question 5: Imagine you want to study students’ opinions on school uniform. Describe how you would select a sample using stratified sampling.

Answer: I would divide the student population into different groups, such as year groups or genders. Then, I would randomly select a proportional number of students from each group to ensure all groups are represented fairly.

Question 6: Identify one potential problem with using opportunity sampling in sociological research.

Answer: Opportunity sampling can lead to bias because the researcher may only select participants who are easily available, which may not represent the wider population.

Question 7: Draw a diagram illustrating a simple random sampling process. Label the key parts of the diagram.

Answer: A correct sketch would show a large population list, a random number generator or lottery method selecting individuals, and arrows pointing from the population to the sample. Labels should include 'population', 'random selection', and 'sample'.

Question 8: Suppose you are conducting a survey on teenagers’ internet use. Which sampling method would be most appropriate if you want a representative sample and why?

Answer: Stratified sampling would be most appropriate because it ensures different subgroups, such as age or gender, are proportionally represented, making the sample more representative of the whole population.

Question 9: Why is it important to have a representative sample in sociological research?

Answer: A representative sample accurately reflects the characteristics of the whole population, which makes the research findings valid and applicable to the entire group.

Question 10: Sketch a diagram to show how a stratified sample differs from a simple random sample. Use labels to clarify your diagram.

Answer: A correct sketch would show two side-by-side diagrams: one illustrating a population divided into groups with proportional samples taken from each (stratified), and another showing a random selection from the entire population without groups. Labels should include 'stratified sampling' and 'simple random sampling'.