The correct answer is: A) Simple random sampling
Simple random sampling is a sampling method in which each individual unit in the population has an equal chance of being selected. This is the most basic type of sampling method and is often used in surveys and polls.
Stratified sampling is a sampling method in which the population is divided into groups (strata) and then a random sample is selected from each group. This method is used when the population is heterogeneous (made up of different groups) and you want to ensure that each group is represented in the sample.
Cluster sampling is a sampling method in which the population is divided into clusters and then a random sample of clusters is selected. This method is used when it is difficult or expensive to collect data from each individual unit in the population.
Convenience sampling is a sampling method in which the units are selected based on their convenience. This method is not a good way to get a representative sample of the population and should only be used when other methods are not possible.
Here are some additional details about each sampling method:
- Simple random sampling is the simplest and most common type of sampling. It is easy to understand and implement, and it produces unbiased estimates of population parameters. However, it can be inefficient if the population is large or if the sampling frame is incomplete.
- Stratified sampling is more complex than simple random sampling, but it can produce more accurate estimates of population parameters. This is because it ensures that each group in the population is represented in the sample. However, it can be difficult to identify the appropriate strata and to collect data from each stratum.
- Cluster sampling is less complex than stratified sampling, but it can produce less accurate estimates of population parameters. This is because the units in each cluster are not independent of each other. However, it is often easier to collect data from clusters than from individual units.
- Convenience sampling is the least reliable type of sampling. This is because the units in the sample are not selected randomly, and they may not be representative of the population. Therefore, the results of a convenience sample should be interpreted with caution.