Advantages and disadvantages of non probability sampling method in sociology
Answers
A major advantage with non-probability sampling is that — compared to probability sampling — it’s very cost- and time-effective. It’s also easy to use and can also be used when it’s impossible to conduct probability sampling (e.g. when you have a very small population to work with).
One major disadvantage of non-probability sampling is that it’s impossible to know how well you are representing the population. Plus, you can’t calculate confidence intervals and margins of error. This is the major reason why, if at all possible, you should consider probability sampling methods first.
Many specific advantages and disadvantages exist for different types of non-probability sampling. You’ll find more information about each method below (click on a name to read more about a specific method’s advantages and disadvantages).
Advantages of non probability random sampling:
The following are the advantages of simple random sampling:
1. One of the great advantages of simple random sampling method is that it needs only a minimum knowledge of the study group of population in advance.
2. It is free from errors in classification.
3. This is suitable for data analysis which includes the use of inferential statistics.
Disadvantages of non probability random sampling
Simple random sampling suffers from the following demerits:
1. This method carries larger errors from the same sample size than that are found in stratified sampling.
2. In simple random sampling, the selection of sample becomes impossible if the units or items are widely dispersed.
3. One of the major disadvantages of simple random sampling method is that it cannot be employed where the units of the population are heterogeneous in nature.