Convenience sampling

 

Rahul K Ramesh

2048107

 

Convenience sampling

Definition: Convenience sampling is a non-probability sampling in which the ease with which  participants can be located is the primary consideration. It is a common sampling technique that is uncomplicated, economical and  members are readily available to be a part of the sample.

Researchers use convenience sampling in situations where additional inputs are not necessary for the  research since there are  no criteria required to be a part of this sample. Hence, it becomes simpler to include elements in this sample. 

It is also called accidental sampling or grab sampling.

 

 


Application of Convenience Sampling:

The use of convenience sampling technique is discouraged by many researchers due to its inability to generalize research findings, the relevance of bias and high sampling error.  But in certain situation convenience sampling is the only method to adopt.

Convenience sampling is applied by brands and organizations to measure their perception of their image in the market. Data is collected from potential customers to understand specific issues or manage opinions of a newly launched product.

Using convenience sampling method, we can send a link of the online questionnaire to individuals on our mobile phone’s contact list, to individuals we are connected via social medias such as Facebook, LinkedIn, Google+ etc. This would be the easiest and the most convenient way of collecting the primary data for the research.

 

 

 

 

Some examples:

 

A simple example of a convenience sampling method is when companies distribute their promotional pamphlets and ask questions at a mall or on a crowded street with randomly selected participants.

Businesses use this sampling method to gather information to address critical issues arising from the market. They also use it when collecting feedback about a particular feature or a newly launched product from the sample created.


Advantages :

·       It’s easy to get a sample.

·       It’s inexpensive.

·       Easy to get participants.

 

Disadvantages :

·       It’s difficult to generalize the results obtained to the whole population.

·       Mostly biased results is obtained and hence some people never go for this sampling.

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