Which of the following holds true to probability sampling in any research design?
A. Every item of the universe has equal chance of inclusion

B. There is always the danger of bias

C. Sample has the same composition and characteristic as that of universe

D. Sample selection is based on the researcher’s convenience

E. Individual units can be selected by lottery method

Choose the most appropriate answer from the options given below:

Correct option is C

Probability sampling refers to a sampling technique where each member of the population has an equal chance of being selected. Key features of probability sampling include:
· A. Every item of the universe has equal chance of inclusion: This is a characteristic of probability sampling, as it ensures every member of the population has an equal opportunity to be included in the sample.
· C. Sample has same composition and characteristic as that of universe: In probability sampling, the sample is expected to mirror the characteristics of the entire population, ensuring the results are representative.
· E. Individual units can be selected by lottery method: A lottery method is one of the random selection techniques used in probability sampling to ensure unbiased selection.
Information Booster:
Probability sampling is critical for ensuring that research findings are generalizable to the entire population. It eliminates bias by giving all individuals in the population an equal chance to be included in the sample. The methods like lottery or random number generators are often used to ensure fairness in the selection process. The aim is to maintain representativeness of the sample, thus ensuring the accuracy and reliability of research outcomes.
Additional Knowledge:
· B (There is always the danger of bias) refers to potential issues in research designs where the sampling method isn't truly random or probability-based. However, in probability sampling, the randomness eliminates most biases.
· D (Sample selection is based on researcher’s convenience) refers to convenience sampling, which is a non-probability sampling technique where the researcher selects the sample based on ease of access, leading to potential bias. Probability sampling, in contrast, is designed to avoid such biases.