Peter N. answered • 09/08/20
PhD with over 20 years experience teaching and tutoring
There are 5 different types of probability sampling:
1) Simple random sampling is a completely random method of selecting subjects. These can include assigning numbers to all subjects and then using a random number generator to choose random numbers. Classic ball and urn experiments are another example of this process (assuming the balls are sufficiently mixed). The members whose numbers are chosen are included in the sample.
2) Stratified Random Sampling involves splitting subjects into mutually exclusive groups and then using simple random sampling to choose members from groups.
3) Cluster Random Sampling is a way to randomly select participants from a list that is too large for simple random sampling. For example, if you wanted to choose 1000 participants from the entire population of the U.S., it is likely impossible to get a complete list of everyone. Instead, the researcher randomly selects areas (i.e. cities or counties) and randomly selects from within those boundaries.
4) Cluster Random Sampling is a way to randomly select participants from a list that is too large for simple random sampling. For example, if you wanted to choose 1000 participants from the entire population of the U.S., it is likely impossible to get a complete list of everyone. Instead, the researcher randomly selects areas (i.e. cities or counties) and randomly selects from within those boundaries.
5) Multi-Stage Random sampling uses a combination of techniques.
