If we use a convenience sample, how should we mention the sample size calculation in the Methods section? (2024)

FAQs

If we use a convenience sample, how should we mention the sample size calculation in the Methods section? ›

The calculation of sample size thus becomes irrelevant, because conclusions drawn from convenience sampling can be valid only for that sample, whereas research requires that your findings are valid for the population.

Combining multiple sampling techniques, such as random sampling, stratified sampling, or systematic sampling, can help improve the quality and representativeness of the convenience sample, which can lead to more accurate and reliable research outcomes.

'Sample size' is a market research term used for defining the number of individuals included in conducting research. Researchers choose their sample based on demographics, such as age, gender questions, or physical location. It can be vague or specific.

Examples of convenience sampling include online and social media surveys, asking acquaintances, and surveying people in a mall, on the street, and in other crowded locations.

Determining whether a convenience sample represents the population can be done through various methods. One approach is to analyze the percentage and average variability of the sample, which can provide insights into how well the sample represents the population .

Convenience sampling is a non-probability sampling method where units are selected for inclusion in the sample because they are the easiest for the researcher to access. This can be due to geographical proximity, availability at a given time, or willingness to participate in the research.

Advantages of convenience sampling

Data collection is easier and anyone can do the research: You don't need to be trained or have a lot of experience to do data collection for convenience sampling. By creating a survey that helps you collect information in quantitative ways, can allow you to quickly analyse trends.

Convenience sampling entails working with the most accessible or available participants within a population of interest. It involves choosing participants that you can easily recruit or access, based on factors such as: Proximity.

Drawbacks of Convenience Sampling

Accuracy of data collected can be compromised since only easily contacted participants are reached. Conclusions rely on the subjective judgment of the researcher and the subjective motivations of the participants leading to further survey bias.

What is the formula for calculating sample size for a cross sectional study? ›

Sample Size Formula: The cornerstone of sample size calculation, the formula n = (Z^2 * P * (1-P)) / d^2​, encapsulates the interplay between the confidence level (Z), expected prevalence (P), and desired precision (d).

In statistics, the sample size is the measure of the number of individual samples used in an experiment. For example, if we are testing 50 samples of people who watch TV in a city, then the sample size is 50.

A good maximum sample size is usually around 10% of the population, as long as this does not exceed 1000. For example, in a population of 5000, 10% would be 500. In a population of 200,000, 10% would be 20,000. This exceeds 1000, so in this case the maximum would be 1000.

In general, a good sample size is one that accurately represents the population and allows for reliable statistical analysis. Larger sample sizes are typically better because they reduce the likelihood of sampling errors and provide a more accurate representation of the population.

Revised on June 22, 2023. Convenience sampling is a non-probability sampling method where units are selected for inclusion in the sample because they are the easiest for the researcher to access. This can be due to geographical proximity, availability at a given time, or willingness to participate in the research.

Rule of Thumb #1: A larger sample increases the statistical power of the evaluation. Rule of Thumb #2: If the effect size of a program is small, the evaluation needs a larger sample to achieve a given level of power. Rule of Thumb #3: An evaluation of a program with low take-up needs a larger sample.

There are many approaches to determining the sample size. These include using a census for small populations, imitating a sample size of similar studies, using published tables, and also applying formulas to calculate a sample size. One approach is to use the entire population as the sample.

For populations under 1,000, a minimum ratio of 30 percent (300 individuals) is advisable to ensure representativeness of the sample. For larger populations, such as a population of 10,000, a comparatively small minimum ratio of 10 percent (1,000) of individuals is required to ensure representativeness of the sample.