Simple random (SR) technique, as a type of probability sample, is aimed at specifying and targeting the population. Is an SR sample, a researcher designs a sampling frame and then employs a purely random process to choose cases (Neuman 255). As a result, each of the sampling elements obtains an equal opportunity of being selected. The difficulty with SR sampling is that the researcher needs to locate the particular sampled feature determined by a random process (Neuman 255).
Thus, in the present scenario, it may be necessary to contact the specific household several times to engage it in research. Opting for an SR sample is appropriate in the given case since it will enable the researcher to mimic the US population in terms of the proportion of different ethnicities.
Other potential sampling plans that might be used are convenience and quota sampling. Convenience sampling, which is also called accidental or haphazard, is less suitable for the present study. In this approach, cases are readily available and easy to reach (Neuman 248). However, this method is reported to produce “very nonrepresentative samples” quite frequently (Neuman 248). An example of such a sample is interviewing people in the street when only those whom the researcher finds easily accessible are selected.
Another probable plan, quota sampling, involves identifying relevant groups among the whole population to “capture diversity among units” (Neuman 249). Weaknesses of quota sampling include capturing only a few features and producing an inaccurate reflection of the population’s proportions (Neuman 249). Thus, simple random sampling is the most relevant choice for the given study.
Work Cited
Neuman, W. Lawrence. Social Research Methods: Qualitative and Quantitative Approaches. 7th ed., Pearson, 2014.