Quota sampling, snowball sampling, critical cases, focus groups, and panels are examples of what kind of sampling techniques?

Quota sampling, snowball sampling, critical cases, focus groups, and panels are examples of what kind of sampling techniques?

• A. Random sampling techniques
• B. Non-random sampling techniques
• C. Systematic sampling techniques
• D. Stratified sampling techniques

Answer: (B)

These methods are non-random (non-probability) sampling techniques. They are chosen for practicality, specific characteristics, or informational value rather than by chance. Quota sampling aims to fill predefined characteristics, so participants are selected to meet quotas rather than chosen randomly. Snowball sampling builds the sample through referrals from existing participants, producing a chain of recruitment rather than random selection. Critical-case sampling targets cases expected to provide rich information, not a representative cross-section. Focus groups and panels are assembled to explore particular topics or to follow a group over time, with selection based on criteria rather than random chance. Because they rely on purposeful or convenient selection, results aren’t generalizable to the entire population with known probability.

These methods are non-random (non-probability) sampling techniques. They are chosen for practicality, specific characteristics, or informational value rather than by chance. Quota sampling aims to fill predefined characteristics, so participants are selected to meet quotas rather than chosen randomly. Snowball sampling builds the sample through referrals from existing participants, producing a chain of recruitment rather than random selection. Critical-case sampling targets cases expected to provide rich information, not a representative cross-section. Focus groups and panels are assembled to explore particular topics or to follow a group over time, with selection based on criteria rather than random chance. Because they rely on purposeful or convenient selection, results aren’t generalizable to the entire population with known probability.