Full Description
"Good coverage of target populations and samples, and statistics of sampling. Logical progression through the material with good use of examples."
--Carol J. Lancaster, Medical University of South Carolina
How much is enough in your sample? What is the difference between a research question and a survey question? By exploring the answers to these questions, this book shows readers how to specify inclusion and exclusion criteria in a sample, select the appropriate probability and non-probability sampling methods, understand the sources of error in sampling, and calculate the response rate. New to this edition is coverage of sample size and power so that the reader can better understand the logic in determining the sample size to detect a difference if one exists. Filled with checklists and guidelines, this book will enable readers to select and use the most appropriate sampling methods for their survey.
"Fink provides detailed descriptions of inclusion/exclusion criteria, the logic in estimating standard errors and sample size determination, and the sources of sampling errors."
--Gerald Albaum, book review in Journal of Marketing Research
Contents
How to Sample in Surveys: Learning Objectives
Ch 1. Target Populations and Samples
Checklist for Obtaining a Sample That Represents the Target
Probability Sampling
Simple Random Sampling
Stratified Random Sampling
Systematic Sampling
Cluster Sampling
Nonprobability Sampling
Convenience Sampling
Snowball Sampling
Quota Sampling
Focus Groups
Commonly Used Probability and Nonprobability Sampling Methods
Ch 2. Statistics and Samples
Sampling Error
Estimating the Standard Error for Simple Random Samples
Sample Size: How Much Is Enough?
Checklist of Factors to Consider When Calculating Sample Size
Calculating Sample Size
Checklist of Questions to Ask When Determining Sample Size
Help With Sample Size and Power
Sampling Units and the Unit of Analysis
Acceptable Response Rate
Guidelines for Promoting Responses and Minimizing Response Bias
Calculating the Response Rate
Exercises
Answers
Suggested Readings
Glossary
About the Author
