Sage Research Methods - Sampling and Data Collection

Introduction

• Focuses on understanding statistics in social, behavioral, and health sciences.
• Emphasizes the rationale behind choosing statistical techniques over computational skills.
• Covers topics from basic descriptive statistics to advanced topics like tests of significance and regression analysis.
• Initial chapter provides an overview of the research process.
• Reference: Chapter on 'How to Sample and Collect Data for Analysis' by William E. Wagner and Brian Joseph Gillespie.

Why Use a Sample?

• Purpose of Sampling:

  • The target population is often too large for complete data collection.
  • Conducting a census is generally not feasible due to time and cost constraints.
  • A sample provides a manageable way to gather insights about the entire population.
  • Without a representative sample, it’s difficult to answer research questions accurately.

• US Census Example:

  • Initiated in 1790, conducted every 10 years by the order of the US Constitution.
  • Demonstrates the impracticality of a full census in most research scenarios.

Key Features of the Book

• Focuses on the meaning and application of statistics rather than computation.
• Explores a range of statistical methods applicable to social sciences.

Additional Resources

• Offers various learning resources, including videos and modern business cases.
• Free trial available for Sage Learning Resources, emphasizing statistical methods.

Access and Sign-In

• Institutional access allows viewing and downloading available content.
• Free trials and sign-in options provided for enhanced access to content.