Which of the following is/are non-random sampling methods-a) Quota samplingb) Stratified random samplingc) Convenience Samplingd) Cluster Sampling
First, I need to recall the definitions of each sampling method. Non-random sampling means that not every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected. So, the key is to identify which of these methods involve some form of selection based on specific criteria rather than random selection.
Quota sampling: I think this is where the researcher selects participants based on predefined quotas, like age or gender, until a certain number is reached. It's non-random because the selection within each quota can be based on convenience or judgment, not randomization.
Stratified random sampling: This involves dividing the population into strata and then randomly selecting samples from each stratum. Since it's random, this is a random method, not non-random. So option b is out.
Convenience sampling: This is when participants are selected because they're easy to reach. Definitely non-random since it's based on availability, not random selection. So option c is non-random.
Cluster sampling: This is where the population is divided into clusters, and entire clusters are randomly selected. It's a type of random sampling because the clusters are chosen randomly. So option d is random.
So the non-random methods here are a) Quota and c) Convenience. The correct answer should be options a and c. Let me check again to make sure. Stratified is random because each stratum is sampled randomly. Cluster is random too. Quota and convenience are non-random. Yep, that seems right.
**Core Concept**
Non-random sampling methods involve selecting participants based on subjective criteria, lacking randomization. Key types include quota, convenience, purposive, and snowball sampling. These contrast with probability methods like stratified or cluster sampling, which use random selection.
**Why the Correct Answer is Right**
**Option C (Convenience Sampling)** is non-random, relying on accessibility (e.g., recruiting hospital staff nearby). **Option A (Quota Sampling)** is also non-random, as it selects pre-defined quotas (e.g., 50% males) but chooses participants non-randomly within those quotas (e.g., street intercepts). Both lack systematic randomization.
**Why Each Wrong Option is Incorrect**
**Option B (Stratified Random Sampling)** uses random selection *within* strata, making it a probability method. **Option D (Cluster Sampling)** randomly selects clusters (e.g., schools) but is still random, unlike non-random methods.
**Clinical Pearl / High-Yield Fact**
Remember: **"CRAP"** (Convenience, Quota, Purposive, Snowball) are non-random. Probability methods (stratified, cluster, simple random) always involve randomization. NEET/USMLE often tests this distinction in biostatistics questions.
**Correct Answer: A and C. Quota sampling and Convenience Sampling**