Effective Sampling and Survey Construction Strategies

Dec 10, 2024

Module 4: Sampling and Survey Construction

Key Topics

  • Quantitative and Qualitative Sampling
  • Mixed Methods
  • Purposeful Sampling
  • Survey Construction
  • Intersexual Competition Scale

Important Concepts

Validity

  • Internal Validity: How well a study is conducted, depicting the relationship between variable X and Y. Higher in experimental studies.
  • External Validity: Applicability of study findings to the real world.

Randomized Control Trials (RCTs)

  • Participants are randomly assigned to experimental or control groups.
  • Considered the gold standard for testing treatment effectiveness.
  • Emphasis on large, diverse samples.
  • Risk of significant results due to sample size, importance of effect size.
  • Double-blinding to reduce bias.

Mixed Methods

  • Approaches: Parallel, Sequential, Concurrent.
  • Importance of representative samples.
  • Self-selection bias and its impact.

Sampling Principles

  1. Logical sample strategy related to research.
  2. Thorough database generation.
  3. Clear inferences and credible explanations.
  4. Ethical sampling strategy.
  5. Feasible sampling plan.
  6. Generalizability of study conclusions.
  7. Efficient sampling scheme.

Quantitative vs. Qualitative Sampling

  • Quantitative: Large, diverse samples; probabilistic sampling; hypothesis testing.
    • Errors: Type 1 (False Positive), Type 2 (False Negative).
    • Importance of effect size and power.
  • Qualitative: Smaller samples, emphasis on saturation and depth.
    • Use of purposeful sampling for information-rich cases.

Sampling Techniques

  • Probabilistic Sampling: Simple random, stratified random, systematic random, cluster.
  • Convenience Sampling: Ease of access, potential bias.
  • Snowball Sampling: Recommending participants.

Purposeful Sampling Types

  • Emphasizing Similarity: Homogeneous, Typical Case, Snowball, Extreme/Deviant.
  • Emphasizing Diversity: Max Variation, Intensity, Confirming/Disconfirming.

Survey Development

  • Conceptual vs. Operational Definition
  • Example: Jealousy Scale
  • Importance of Validity and Reliability

Survey Design Process

  1. Literature Review: Define construct.
  2. Participant Feedback: Interviews or focus groups.
  3. Data Synthesis: Merge literature and participant feedback.
  4. Item Development: Clear, concise wording. Avoid jargon, leading questions.
  5. Expert Validation: Feedback from field experts.
  6. Cognitive Pre-flight: Think-aloud sessions to test understanding.

Best Practices for Survey Scale

  • Avoid reverse-scored items.
  • Use 5- or 7-point response scales.
  • Avoid agree/disagree anchors.
  • Construct-specific verbal labels.
  • Avoid context-specific items.

Mixed Methods and Hybrid Designs

  • Combining quantitative and qualitative data for comprehensive understanding.
  • Types of Hybrid Designs: Prioritize effectiveness, equal focus, prioritize implementation.

Conclusion

  • Importance of comprehensive sampling and survey development.
  • Mixed methods to achieve both depth and breadth.
  • Use of new methodologies for improved survey construction.