Which of the following are the characteristics of a good sample design?

• A. It must result in a truly representative sample
• B. It must be such which result in a small sampling error
• C. It must be viable in context of funds available for the research study
• D. It must be such so that systematic bias can be controlled in a better way

Choose the correct answer from the option given below:

Correct option is B

A, B, C and D only

All the given points are essential characteristics of a good sample design.

• A. Truly Representative Sample: The sample must represent the population well to ensure the findings can be generalized accurately.
• B. Small Sampling Error: A good sample design should minimize sampling errors to increase the precision of the results.
• C. Viability in Terms of Funds: The design should be feasible with respect to the available funds for research. High costs may hinder the study, so financial viability is crucial.
• D. Control Over Systematic Bias: A well-designed sample should aim to minimize systematic bias, ensuring that the data is unbiased and accurate.

Information Booster:

• Representative Sample (A): A representative sample means that the sample characteristics closely match the population, making the findings more reliable and valid. This is achieved through proper sampling methods such as random sampling.
• Small Sampling Error (B): Sampling error refers to the difference between the sample estimate and the true population value. A good sample design focuses on minimizing this error, thereby improving the accuracy of the research results.
• Viability of Funds (C): A research study should be designed in a manner that fits within budgetary constraints while ensuring the study remains effective. This may include limiting the sample size or using cost-effective sampling techniques.
• Control of Systematic Bias (D): Bias in sampling can result in inaccurate results. Systematic bias can be controlled through randomization and ensuring that all parts of the population are equally represented.

Additional Information:

• A. Truly Representative Sample: If a sample is not representative, the results can be skewed, leading to inaccurate conclusions. Thus, methods such as stratified sampling are used to ensure that different segments of the population are represented adequately.
• B. Small Sampling Error: While minimizing sampling error is important, it’s crucial to balance this with practical constraints, such as time and budget.
• C. Viability in Terms of Funds: Without adequate funding, the scope of the sample and the precision of the study may be compromised. Planning within a budget helps to ensure the study is comprehensive and feasible.
• D. Control Over Systematic Bias: Systematic biases, such as selection bias, can lead to a distorted sample. Ensuring randomness and equal opportunity for every participant helps mitigate such biases.