Assignment: Census Method and Sampling Method in

Data Collection
Introduction
In the realm of data collection and statistical analysis, two primary methods are employed to
gather information about a population: the census method and the sampling method. Each
approach has distinct characteristics, advantages, and disadvantages, making them suitable for
different research objectives and resource constraints. This assignment will delve into the
definitions, key differences, benefits, drawbacks, and various types of these methods, ultimately
providing a comprehensive understanding of their application in statistical inquiry.

1. Census Method
The census method, also known as complete enumeration or 100% enumeration, involves
collecting data from every single unit or member of the entire population under study. It
aims to gather exhaustive information about the characteristics of every individual or item within
a defined universe.

1.1. Definition

A census is a systematic process of collecting, compiling, analyzing, and disseminating

demographic, economic, and social data pertaining to all persons in a country or a
well-delimited territory, or all units in a specific field, at a specified time.

1.2. Advantages of the Census Method

●​ High Accuracy and Reliability: Since data is collected from every unit, there is no
sampling error, leading to highly accurate and reliable results. This provides a true
measure of the population.
●​ Detailed Information: It allows for the collection of detailed information about small
subgroups within the population, which might be missed in a sample.
●​ Benchmark Data: Census data can serve as benchmark data for future studies and
surveys, allowing for comparisons and trend analysis.
●​ Comprehensive Picture: It provides a complete and holistic picture of the population's
characteristics, crucial for national planning, policy formulation, and resource allocation
(e.g., planning schools, hospitals, infrastructure).
●​ Less Biased: Results are generally less biased as there's no discretion in selecting units.
●​ Study of Diverse Characteristics: It enables the study of various diverse characteristics
of the universe simultaneously.

1.3. Disadvantages of the Census Method

●​ High Cost: Collecting data from every unit is extremely expensive, requiring significant
financial resources for manpower, logistics, and data processing.
●​ Time-Consuming: It is a very time-consuming process, often taking months or even
 years to complete, especially for large populations.
●​ Resource Intensive: Requires a vast workforce and extensive infrastructure for data
collection and management.
●​ Feasibility Issues: For very large or infinite populations, conducting a census is
impractical or even impossible.
●​ Data Can Become Outdated: Due to the long collection period, the data may become
outdated quickly as populations are dynamic and characteristics change over time.
●​ Non-Sampling Errors: While free from sampling error, it is still susceptible to
non-sampling errors such as inaccuracies in data recording, non-response, or interviewer
bias.
●​ Limited Depth of Information: To keep the census manageable, the number of
questions asked is often limited, which might result in less in-depth data compared to a
focused sample survey.

1.4. When to use the Census Method

The census method is typically preferred when:

●​ The population is small and manageable.
●​ High accuracy and precise information about every unit are critical.
●​ Detailed information about sub-groups is required.
●​ A sampling frame (list of all population members) is not available or difficult to construct.
●​ The study is of a sensitive nature where every individual's data is essential (e.g., national
population census).

2. Sampling Method
The sampling method involves collecting data from a subset or a selected group of the
population, known as a sample, rather than from every unit. The goal is to select a sample that
is representative of the entire population, allowing researchers to make inferences and
generalize findings to the larger group.

2.1. Definition

Sampling is a statistical process of selecting a representative subset of a population of interest

for the purpose of making observations and inferences about that population.

2.2. Advantages of the Sampling Method

●​ Reduced Cost: Significantly less expensive than a census as data is collected from a
smaller number of units.
●​ Less Time-Consuming: Data collection and processing are much faster, making it
suitable for time-sensitive studies.
●​ Feasibility for Large Populations: It is the only practical method for studying very large
or infinite populations.
●​ More In-Depth Information: Since fewer units are involved, it allows for more detailed
and intensive investigation of characteristics, including asking a greater number of
questions.
●​ Accuracy and Reliability (with proper techniques): When appropriate sampling
 techniques are used, the results can be highly representative of the population and
statistically reliable, with quantifiable sampling error.
●​ Manageability: The organizational problems involved are fewer due to the smaller size of
the data to be collected.

2.3. Disadvantages of the Sampling Method

●​ Sampling Error: There is always a possibility of sampling error, meaning the sample may
not perfectly represent the population. This error can be minimized but not entirely
eliminated.
●​ Less Detailed Information for Subgroups: It may not provide sufficient data to make
accurate inferences about small subgroups within the population.
●​ Potential for Bias: If the sampling method is not chosen carefully or implemented
incorrectly, it can lead to biased results, where the sample does not accurately reflect the
population.
●​ Need for Expert Knowledge: Requires a good understanding of statistical methods to
design an effective sample and interpret the results correctly.
●​ Difficulty in Obtaining a Sampling Frame: For some populations, it might be difficult or
impossible to obtain a complete and accurate list of all members, which is often crucial for
probability sampling methods.

2.4. Types of Sampling Methods

Sampling methods are broadly categorized into two main types:

2.4.1. Probability Sampling Methods (Random Sampling)

In probability sampling, every unit in the population has a known, non-zero chance of being
selected for the sample. This allows for the calculation of sampling error and the making of
statistically valid inferences about the population.
●​ a) Simple Random Sampling:
○​ Description: Every member of the population has an equal and independent
chance of being selected. This can be done using random number generators or by
drawing lots.
○​ Advantages: Simple to implement, free from bias.
○​ Disadvantages: May not select enough individuals with specific characteristics,
can be impractical for very large populations, requires a complete list of the
population.
●​ b) Systematic Sampling:
○​ Description: After a random starting point, every n-th individual is selected from a
list.
○​ Advantages: Easier and quicker than simple random sampling, ensures an evenly
spread sample across the population.
○​ Disadvantages: Can be biased if there's a hidden pattern in the population list that
coincides with the sampling interval.
●​ c) Stratified Sampling:
○​ Description: The population is divided into homogeneous subgroups (strata) based
on shared characteristics (e.g., age, gender, income). Then, a simple random or
 systematic sample is drawn from each stratum.
○​ Advantages: Ensures representation of all subgroups, allows for comparisons
between strata, higher precision than simple random sampling if strata are truly
homogeneous.
○​ Disadvantages: Requires knowledge of population characteristics to form strata,
can be complex to implement if many strata are needed.
●​ d) Cluster Sampling:
○​ Description: The population is divided into clusters (naturally occurring groups,
e.g., geographical areas, schools). A random sample of clusters is selected, and
then all units within the chosen clusters are surveyed (single-stage) or a sample is
drawn from within the chosen clusters (multi-stage).
○​ Advantages: Cost-effective and time-efficient, especially for geographically
dispersed populations, does not require a complete list of individual population
members.
○​ Disadvantages: Less precise than simple random or stratified sampling, higher
sampling error if clusters are not homogeneous.

2.4.2. Non-Probability Sampling Methods (Non-Random Sampling)

In non-probability sampling, the selection of units is not based on random chance, and the
probability of any unit being selected is unknown. These methods are often used for qualitative
research, exploratory studies, or when a complete sampling frame is unavailable. However, they
do not allow for statistically valid generalizations to the entire population.
●​ a) Convenience Sampling:
○​ Description: Researchers select units that are easily accessible or readily
available.
○​ Advantages: Quick, inexpensive, and easy to implement.
○​ Disadvantages: Highly susceptible to bias, results may not be representative of the
population.
●​ b) Purposive (Judgmental) Sampling:
○​ Description: Researchers intentionally select units based on their expert judgment
and knowledge of the population, believing they are most representative or possess
specific characteristics relevant to the study.
○​ Advantages: Useful for specific research questions, allows for in-depth insights
from knowledgeable participants.
○​ Disadvantages: High potential for researcher bias, difficult to generalize findings.
●​ c) Quota Sampling:
○​ Description: Similar to stratified sampling, but units are selected non-randomly
within each stratum until a pre-defined quota for each subgroup is met.
○​ Advantages: Ensures representation of subgroups, relatively quick and
inexpensive.
○​ Disadvantages: Non-random selection within strata introduces bias, not possible to
estimate sampling error.
●​ d) Snowball Sampling:
○​ Description: Initial participants are recruited, and then they refer other potential
participants who meet the study criteria. This method is often used for hard-to-reach
populations.
○​ Advantages: Useful for reaching hidden or specialized populations.
 ○​ Disadvantages: High potential for bias (participants tend to refer similar
individuals), limited generalizability.

2.5. When to use the Sampling Method

The sampling method is generally preferred when:

●​ The population is large or infinite.
●​ Time and resources are limited.
●​ A high degree of accuracy is not required for every single unit, but reliable generalizations
about the population are needed.
●​ Destructive testing is involved (e.g., testing the lifespan of light bulbs).
●​ The nature of the study requires more in-depth data collection per unit.

3. Key Differences Between Census and Sampling Methods

Feature Census Method Sampling Method
Scope Covers the entire population. Covers a subset of the
population (sample).
Cost Very high. Relatively low.
Time Very time-consuming. Less time-consuming.
Accuracy Higher accuracy (no sampling Lower accuracy (subject to
error). sampling error).
Feasibility Suitable for small populations. Suitable for large and infinite
populations.
Resource Needs Requires extensive resources Requires fewer resources.
(manpower, equipment).
Errors Susceptible to non-sampling Susceptible to both sampling
errors. and non-sampling errors.
Generalizability Direct representation of the Inferences are made about the
entire population. population based on the
sample.
Depth of Info Often limited to breadth over Allows for more in-depth data
depth. collection.
Conclusion
Both the census method and the sampling method are invaluable tools for data collection in
research and statistics. The choice between them depends on the specific objectives of the
study, the characteristics of the population, available resources (time, budget, personnel), and
the required level of accuracy. While a census provides complete and highly accurate data, its
practical limitations often make the sampling method a more efficient and feasible alternative.
By understanding the various types of sampling and their implications, researchers can select
the most appropriate method to gather reliable and meaningful insights, even from vast and
complex populations.