Choosing a Sample

To choose a sample, you have to do the following:

1. Is there a sampling frame?

• If so, the sampling will be representative.

2. Is there one stage of sampling, or will you need to use multi-stage sampling?
   
   
3. Are there groups to compare?

• If so, the sample must be stratified.
• There will be 2 sampling frames.
• It will be random stratified, or systematic stratified.

4. If there no groups to compare:

• The sample will be random or systematic.

5. If there is no sampling frame, the sample will be non-representative.
   
   
6. Is the group meant to be as representative as possible?
   
   
7. Is the group hidden and only accessible through personal contact?

• If so, the sample will be snowball.

8. Is the group accessible from a particular place - an area or a community?

• If so, the sample will be cluster.

9. Is the sample chosen to test a particular idea? i.e. not meant to be representative?

• If so, the sample will be purposive (theoretical).