Probability and Statistics
Probability and Statistics
Sampling Techniques
George Ondigo
Reg. No: CO24/405295/2024
April 29, 2025
Introduction
Sampling is a process of selecting a subset of individuals or items from a larger population
to estimate characteristics of the whole population. Sampling techniques are broadly
classified into two categories:
1. Probability Sampling
2. Non-Probability Sampling
b) Systematic Sampling
Every k th individual is selected from a list after choosing a random starting point. Ex-
ample: Selecting every 10th student on a class register.
c) Stratified Sampling
The population is divided into subgroups (strata) based on shared characteristics, and
samples are taken from each stratum proportionally or equally. Example: Dividing
students by year of study, then sampling from each year.
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d) Cluster Sampling
The population is divided into clusters, usually based on location or other criteria, and
a few clusters are randomly selected. All individuals in chosen clusters are included.
Example: Randomly selecting 3 schools from a county and surveying all students in
those schools.
c) Snowball Sampling
Existing participants refer new participants. Example: Used in hard-to-reach popula-
tions like drug users.
d) Quota Sampling
The researcher ensures representation of specific characteristics but uses non-random
selection within each group. Example: Selecting 20 males and 20 females for a study,
but choosing them based on convenience.