Systematic Sampling
According to the Systematic Sampling Method of collecting data, different units of the population are systematically arranged in numerical, alphabetical, and geographical order. To form a sample, every nth term or item of the numbered items is selected. This method is a short-cut method of collecting data through the Random Sampling method.
For example, if 10 out of 200 people are to be selected for investigation, then these are first arranged in a systematic order. After that one of the first 10 people would be randomly selected. In the same way, every 10th person from the selected item will be taken under the sample. In other words, if the first selected person is the 8th person in the order, then the subsequent person selected in the sample would be 18th, 28th, 38th, 48th, ……….198th.
Merits of Systematic Sampling
- Systematic Sampling Method is a simple method of collecting data as the investigator can easily determine the sample.
- As the items are arranged in a systematic order, the chances of personal biases are less.
Demerits of Systematic Sampling
- As the first item of the given population is selected randomly, and then further items are selected on the basis of the first item, every item of the population does not get an equal chance of getting selected.
- In case the population has homogeneous items, the method of Systematic Sampling does not serve any specific purpose.
Methods of Sampling
The sampling method involves selecting a subset of individuals or observations from a larger population to collect data and make inferences about the entire population. It is a practical and efficient way to gather data when it is impractical or impossible to collect information from every member of the population. Different methods of sampling include Random Sampling, Purposive Sampling, Stratified Sampling, Systematic Sampling, Quota Sampling, and Convenience Sampling.