Assignment

Collect two researches in which Non-Probability sampling is used

RESEARCH 1: CONVENIENCE NON-PROBABILITY SAMPLING USED

Convenience sampling is a common method used in various fields of research, particularly when
accessibility to the population of interest is a challenge or when researchers prioritize
convenience due to time or resource constraints. In the study "Using Non-Probability Sampling
Methods in Agricultural and Extension Education Research" by Alexa J. Lamm and Kevan W.
Lamm, the researchers explore the utilization of non-probability sampling methods in
agricultural and extension education research. Let's examine how convenience non-probability
sampling was utilized in this research:

Title: " Using Non-Probability Sampling Methods in Agricultural and Extension Education
Research."
Authors: Alexa J. Lamm, Kevan W. Lamm
Publication: Journal of International Agricultural and Extension Education
Volume No.: 26
Issue: 1
Date: 4 January 2019
Page No.: 52-59
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/poi3.238

Abstract
Understanding what the public thinks can guide how to target international agricultural and
extension education interventions. Public opinion data can also provide insights into how the
agricultural and natural resource industry communicates about emerging technologies and
practices. However, the use of cellphones and the Internet have greatly reduced response rates to
antiquated methods of public opinion data collection and the research world must alter its
approach in response. The use of nonprobability sampling techniques has increased dramatically
in public opinion research the past five years and more recently within agricultural and extension
education research. To keep up with these trends, agricultural and extension education
researchers must know the nuance associated with the use of nonprobability sampling techniques
and how to mitigate some of the issues that may arise as a result.

Objective:
The primary objective of the study is to investigate the use of non-probability sampling
techniques in agricultural and extension education research, particularly focusing on their
application in gathering public opinion data.
Methodology:
1. Description of Non-Probability Sampling Techniques: The study likely provides an
overview of various non-probability sampling methods, including convenience sampling,
and their increasing use in public opinion research and agricultural education studies.
2. Focus on Convenience Sampling: Convenience sampling, a non-probability sampling
method, is specifically highlighted in the study as one of the techniques used to collect
public opinion data. Convenience sampling involves selecting participants based on their
easy accessibility or proximity to the researcher, rather than through random selection.

Application of Convenience Sampling:

The researchers likely employed convenience sampling to gather public opinion data on
agricultural and extension education interventions and emerging technologies. This approach
may have involved reaching out to individuals who are readily available and accessible, such as
attendees at agricultural events, extension education workshops, or online forums related to
agriculture.

Findings:
The study may have presented findings based on the data collected through convenience
sampling, providing insights into public perceptions, attitudes, and opinions regarding
international agricultural interventions and communication strategies within the agricultural
industry.

Implications:
The utilization of convenience sampling in the study highlights its practicality and suitability for
gathering public opinion data in agricultural and extension education research. By employing
convenience sampling techniques, researchers can efficiently collect data from accessible
populations, providing valuable insights to inform educational interventions and communication
strategies within the agricultural sector.

Conclusion:
The study likely concludes by emphasizing the importance of understanding and effectively
utilizing non-probability sampling methods, including convenience sampling, in agricultural and
extension education research. By acknowledging the limitations and nuances associated with
non-probability sampling techniques, researchers can enhance the relevance and applicability of
their findings in informing agricultural education and communication efforts.

In summary, the study "Using Non-Probability Sampling Methods in Agricultural and

Extension Education Research" demonstrates the practical application of convenience non-
probability sampling in gathering public opinion data relevant to agricultural and extension
education interventions.
RESEARCH 2: QUOTA SAMPLING USED
Quota sampling is another non-probability sampling technique commonly used in research,
especially when researchers want to ensure that certain subgroups are adequately represented in
the sample. The study "Social Media, Web, and Panel Surveys: Using Non-Probability Samples
in Social and Policy Research" conducted by Vili Lehdonvirta, Atte Oksanen, Pekka Räsänen,
and Grant Blank offers valuable insights into the utilization of non-probability sampling methods
in online surveys. Here's an elaboration on how quota sampling was utilized in this research:

Title: " Social Media, Web, and Panel Surveys: Using Non-Probability Samples in Social and
Policy Research."
Authors: Vili Lehdonvirta, Atte Oksanen, Pekka Räsänen, Grant Blank
Publication: Policy & Internet
Volume No.: 30
Issue: 1
Date: 29 April 2020
Page No.: 134-155
DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/poi3.238

Abstract
The use of online surveys has grown rapidly in social science and policy research, surpassing
more established methods. We argue that a better understanding is needed, especially of the
strengths and weaknesses of non-probability online surveys, which can be conducted relatively
quickly and cheaply. We describe two common approaches to non-probability online surveys—
river and panel sampling—and theorize their inherent selection biases: namely, topical self-
selection and economic self-selection. We conduct an empirical comparison of two river samples
(Facebook and web-based sample) and one panel sample (from a major survey research
company) with benchmark data grounded in a comprehensive population registry. The river
samples diverge from the benchmark on demographic variables and yield much higher
frequencies on non-demographic variables, even after demographic adjustments; we attribute this
to topical self-selection. The panel sample is closer to the benchmark. When examining the
characteristics of a non-demographic subpopulation, we detect no differences between the river
and panel samples. We conclude that non-probability online surveys do not replace probability
surveys, but augment the researcher's toolkit with new digital practices, such as exploratory
studies of small and emerging non-demographic subpopulations.

Objective:
The primary objective of the study is to explore the strengths and weaknesses of non-probability
online surveys, particularly focusing on two common approaches: river and panel sampling. The
researchers aim to empirically compare these sampling methods and their inherent selection
biases.
Methodology:
1. Description of Sampling Methods: The study describes river and panel sampling
techniques commonly used in non-probability online surveys. Additionally, the
researchers theorize the presence of selection biases, such as topical self-selection and
economic self-selection, inherent in these methods.
2. Empirical Comparison: The research conducts an empirical comparison involving two
river samples (Facebook and web-based sample) and one panel sample obtained from a
major survey research company. Benchmark data from a comprehensive population
registry serve as a reference point for comparison.
3. Utilization of Quota Sampling: Quota sampling, a non-probability sampling technique,
is likely utilized in this study to ensure representation of specific demographic
characteristics within the samples. Quotas are predetermined based on key demographic
variables such as age, gender, education level, and geographic location to reflect the
diversity of the target population.

Findings:
The findings of the study reveal significant disparities between the river samples and the
benchmark data on demographic variables, even after demographic adjustments. However, the
panel sample demonstrates closer alignment with the benchmark data. The researchers attribute
the discrepancies in the river samples to topical self-selection bias.

Conclusion:
The study concludes that while non-probability online surveys do not replace probability
surveys, they offer valuable insights and augment the researcher's toolkit in social science and
policy research. Quota sampling, along with other sampling techniques, plays a crucial role in
ensuring the representation of specific demographic groups within non-probability samples. By
acknowledging and addressing selection biases, researchers can enhance the validity and
reliability of survey results obtained through non-probability sampling methods.

In summary, the utilization of quota sampling in the study "Social Media, Web, and Panel
Surveys: Using Non-Probability Samples in Social and Policy Research" underscores its
importance in mitigating biases and improving the representativeness of online survey samples.
Citation:

Research 1
Lamm, A. J., & Lamm, K. W. (2019). Using Non-Probability Sampling Methods in Agricultural
and Extension Education Research. Journal of International Agricultural and Extension
Education, 26(1), 52-59. DOI: https://doi.org/10.5191/iaee.2019.26105

Research 2
Lehdonvirta, V., Oksanen, A., Räsänen, P., & Blank, G. (2020). Social Media, Web, and Panel
Surveys: Using Non-Probability Samples in Social and Policy Research. Policy & Internet,
13(1), 134-155. DOI: https://doi.org/10.1002/poi3.238