Question

Distinguish between probability and non-probability sampling, discuss their types with examples.

Answer 1

Definition of Probability Sampling:-

In statistics, probability sampling refers to the sampling method in which all the members of the population has a pre-specified and an equal chance to be a part of the sample. This technique is based on the randomization principle, wherein the procedure is so designed, which guarantees that each and every individual of the population has an equal selection opportunity. This helps to reduce the possibility of bias.

Statistical inferences can be made by the researchers using this technique, i.e. the result obtained can be generalised from the surveyed sample to the target population. The methods of probability sampling, are provided below:

1.Simple Random Sampling

2.Stratified Sampling

3.Cluster Sampling

4.Systematicampling

Definition of Non-Probability Sampling:-

When in a sampling method, all the individuals of the universe are not given an equal opportunity of becoming a part of the sample, the method is said to be Non-probability sampling. Under this technique as such, there is no probability attached to the unit of the population and the selection relies on the subjective judgment of the researcher. Therefore, the conclusions drawn by the sampler cannot be inferred from the sample to the whole population. The methods of non-probability sampling are listed below:

1.Convenience Sampling

2.Quota Sampling

3.Judgment or Purposive Sampling

4.Snowball Sampling

The significant differences between probability and non-probability sampling:-

1.The sampling in which the subjects of the population get an equal opportunity to be selected as a representative sample, is known as probability sampling. A sampling method in which it is not known that which individual from the population will be chosen as a sample, is called nonprobability sampling.

2.The basis of probability sampling is randomization or chance, so it is also known as Random sampling. On the contrary, in non-probability sampling randomization technique is not applied for selecting a sample. Hence it is considered as Non-random sampling.

3.In probability sampling, the sampler chooses the representative to be part of the sample randomly, whereas, in non-probability sampling, the subject is chosen arbitrarily, to belong to the sample by the researcher.

4.The chances of selection in probability sampling, are fixed and known. As opposed to non-probability sampling, the selection probability is zero, i.e. it is neither specified not known.

5.Probability sampling is used when the research is conclusive in nature. On the other hand, when the research is exploratory, nonprobability sampling should be used.

6.The results generated by probability sampling, are free from bias while the results of non-probability sampling are more or less biased.

7.As the subjects are selected randomly by the researcher in probability sampling, so the extent to which it represents the whole population is higher as compared to the nonprobability sampling. That is why extrapolation of results to the entire population is possible in the probability sampling but not in non-probability sampling.

Probability sampling test hypothesis but nonprobability sampling generates it.