What is a representative sample and when is it important to obtain a representative sample
Representative Sample Show
A representative sample is one that has strong external validity in relationship to the target population the sample is meant to represent. As such, the findings from the survey can be generalized with confidence to the population of interest. There are many factors that affect the representativeness of a sample, but traditionally attention has been paid mostly to issues related to sample design and coverage. More recently, concerns have extended to issues related to nonresponse. Determining RepresentativenessWhen using a sample survey to make inferences about the population from which the sampled elements were drawn, researchers must judge whether the sample is actually representative of the target population. The best way of ensuring a representative sample is to (a) have a complete list (i.e. sampling frame) of ... locked icon Sign in to access this contentSign in Get a 30 day FREE TRIAL
sign up today! Get started with Voxco’s Market Research Toolkit. Market Research trends guide + Online Surveys guide + Agile MArket Research Guide + 5 Market Research Templates What is a representative sample?One can describe representative samples as a small quantity or part or subset of a larger set or entity. It has the same properties as that of the larger population of which it is a representative of. Lets take for example a brand which is about to release a new service or product in Bavaria. Germany. It would be impossible for the brand to survey each and every person in Bavaria to gauge their reception towards the launch. As an alternative, researchers can gather a small sample from different parts of Bavaria, who will represent that region’s population. The respondents will then be surveyed to get their feedback on the product/service. This sample of people who were chosen from Bavaria is called a “representative sample”. Download Market Research ToolkitGet market research trends guide, Online Surveys guide, Agile Market Research Guide & 5 Market research Template Importance of representative samples in research
How to build and develop a representative sampleProbability SamplingThis is a technique based on the probability theory, in which analysts or researchers select a sample from a larger population. Participants must be selected via a randomized selection process to be considered a probability sample. Simple random sampling is the ideal choice if one wishes to use probability to acquire a representative sample. Sample choices are random, which ensures that all members of the demographic will have approximately the same probability of being included or selected in the sample. Non-Probability SamplingNon-probability sampling is a method in which analysts and researchers select samples depending on their judgment (which is subjective) rather than randomly selecting respondents. When it comes to non-probability sampling, not every member in the population has a chance to participate in the study directly as opposed to probability sampling, where all members of the target demographic have a chance to be selected for the study. As researchers are aware of the selected representative sample’s demographic/population characteristics, it helps keep a limit on the profile of the target sample. Researchers can define the variables that are of interest to them, such as locality, age, race, gender, etc. By being aware of these attributes even before obtaining the information, researchers have the ability to create a representative sample that is ideal for their requirements. However, they must be sure to avoid developing a sample that does not reflect the target demographic. The key aim being that the research study has the most accurate data possible. How to avoid sampling errorsShould a sample not be a representative one, it creates a problem known as margin of error. Let’s say one wants to have a representative sample of 200 employees working in a large organization. You must select a similar number of people from men and women. If your sample is biased, the results you receive will be biased as well. Another thing to keep in mind is sample size – it needs to be as large as realistically possible within your budget. Tools like Voxco panel manager can help select the right sample for your surveys, and nurture respondents. It is necessary to include people from every type of demographic in your sample for honest and accurate feedback. See Voxco survey software in action with a Free demo.What your survey software must have to effectively research representative samplesOmnichannel data collectionYour target demographic can be anywhere, and not all of them will have constant access to the internet. That is why Voxco’s omnichannel survey software allows researchers and analysts to collect feedback from representative samples across all channels – online, face-to-face and via telephone. This ensures that your research has accurate data, and that geographical barriers do not come in the way of your surveys. Analytics and DashboardsUncovering insights from your sample requires capable analytics tools. Voxco’s analytics can help find relationships between your demographic and the topic of your research. Findings are conveniently displayed on intuitive dashboards- which relay the right information and help you make sense of the data you’ve collected. Rewards integrationThe accuracy of representative sample data depends on the number of people you’ve surveyed. To entice more people to partake in your surveys you can consider incentivizing them.Incentivizing surveys also ensures that your drop off rates are low, which also helps in ensuring that your survey data is accurate. Voxco’s online survey software can seamlessly integrate rewards into your surveys which are tied to survey completion, ensuring that rewards are presented only to respondents who have completed the survey. See why 450+ clients trust Voxco! By providing this information, you agree that we may process your personal data in accordance with our Privacy Policy. Explore Voxco Survey Software Great Research Voxco’s platform helps you gather omnichannel feedback, measure sentiment, uncover insights and act on them. Join 500 + global clients across 40+ countriesGreat Research Voxco’s platform helps you gather omnichannel feedback, measure sentiment, uncover insights and act on them. Join 500 + global clients across 40+ countriesWhy is obtaining a representative sample important?Why is obtaining a representative sample important? Representative samples are important because they ensure that as many relevant types of people as possible are included in your sample, and that the right mix of people are interviewed or surveyed. This helps ensure your results aren't tainted by bias.
How do we obtain a representative sample?In order to obtain a representative sample, they need to look at what percentage of U.S. citizens share certain qualities such as ethnic background and gender and ensure that their sample accurately reflects those numbers.
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