Defining the Sample in research involves identifying a group of people or things taken from a larger group for measurement. The Sample must be similar to the larger group for the results to be generalizable (Ford, 2016). Sampling aims to represent the characteristics of this Sample's research question.
Sampling Methods:
According to Corona, Saez & Stoffel (2014), there are two sampling methods. The first method is probability sampling, which was chosen based on probability theory and includes simple, cluster, systematic, and complete random sampling. The second method is non-probability sampling, which has been selected based on the researcher's personal judgment. It includes convenience, judgmental, purposive, snowball, and quota sampling.
Choosing a Population Category:
The Sample will be from the construction site workers and the surrounding population and the extent to which they are affected by pollution, whether it is air pollution, drinking water pollution, noise pollution, or even the appearance of soil pollution on cultivated plants (Robinson, 2014).
Accessibility for Residents:
The population can be reached by obtaining the necessary permits to conduct the survey and take the Sample. This includes prior contact and appointment to complete the study and determine the number needed to perform the Sample (Coyne, 1997).
Ease of Use:
Sampling is less expensive than the comprehensive survey method and facilitates access to more detailed and accurate information; the Sample provides time for a thorough study (Ford, 2016).
Conclusion
Before taking the Sample, the researcher must accurately define the population and prepare a complete list of the community and its environment. The Sample must be similar to the community in which the research question is located, which is affected by pollution in the construction sites. Attention must be paid to the sample size. The larger the number, the closer it is to the truth, so the sample size must be sufficient to judge the population concerned in the study.
References
Corona, C., Saez, J. L., & Stoffel, M. (2014). Defining optimal sample size, sampling design, and thresholds for hydrogeomorphic landslide reconstructions. Quaternary geochronology, 22, 72-84.
Coyne, I. T. (1997). Sampling in qualitative research. Purposeful and theoretical sampling; merging or clear boundaries?.Journal of Advanced Nursing, 26(3), 623-630.
Ford, J. B. (2016). Cost vs credibility: The student sample trap in business research. European Business Review, 28(6), 652-656. Retrieved from ProQuest Central.
Robinson, O. C. (2014). Sampling in interview-based qualitative research: A theoretical and practical guide. Qualitative research in psychology, 11(1), 25-41.