NON-PROBABILITY SAMPLING

TYPES OF NON-PROBABILITY SAMPLING: In non probability sampling sample unit are selected in a non-random manner. Non probability sampling does not adopt the theory of probability while selecting sample units. Here, items for the sample are selected deliberately by the researcher. His choice of items remains supreme. Non probability sampling methods are as noted below: 1. Purposive sampling. 2. Quota sampling. 3. Convenience sampling. 4. Judgment sampling. 1. Purposive sampling: Purposive sampling implies deliberate selection of sampling units as per some pre-determined criteria. It involves selection of sampling unit which is judged as the most appropriate for the given research study/ research project. Purposive sampling is appropriate when the specific relevance of the sample to a given study is more important than its representative ness to the population. Purposive sampling is less costly and guarantees inclusion of required units of the population in the sample. It is not possible to draw inference about population from results of such sample. This result of the sample cannot be extended to that of the population. 2. Quota sampling: Quota sampling is one type of non-probability sampling. This nonprobability sampling method is commonly used in consumer or marketing surveys opinion polls, etc which aims at getting quick crude result. In this method, the universe is sub-divided into identical group on the basis of certain well defined norms like age, sex, income, religion, economic status, education and so on. Quota sampling method is easy and quick. It given freedom to investigators and enables them to complete their work quickly. It is frequently used in market studies. This method of sampling is economical and traveling cost can be reduced. Moreover, it is administratively convenient as the labor of selecting a random sample can be avoided by using quota. Finally, the field work can be completed quickly due to quota sampling. Quota sampling is less time consuming and its filed work can be easily organized. Quota sampling is likely to be a biased method. Errors are possible due to the preferences and prejudices of the investigators. Moreover, it is extremely difficult to supervise and control the fields investigation under quota sampling. 3. Convenience sampling: In convenience sampling, the convenience of the researcher is given importance while selecting the sample. Sample is selected as per the convenience of the researcher. A sample obtained from readily available lists such as telephone directories is called convenience sampling Interviewing respondents on the street or the bus stop or at the railway station are the examples of convenience sampling. In this sense, convenience sampling is also called accidental sampling as the respondents in the sample are included merely on account of their being available on the spot where the survey work is in progress.

4. Judgment sampling: In judgment sampling, the sample is selected as per the judgment of the researcher or expert or some other person assisting or guiding the researcher. Here, normally the inclusion of items in the subject is as per the expert judgment given. An expert in the subject of research will be appointed to suggest the units which are best representative of the total population for including in the sample. Sample is purposively selected as per the opinion or judgment given by an expert and not based on the random method