Which sampling method deliberately ensures representation by requiring specific characteristics to match population proportions?

Which sampling method deliberately ensures representation by requiring specific characteristics to match population proportions?

• A. Random Sample
• B. Stratified Sample
• C. Quota Sample
• D. Systematic Sample

Answer: (C)

Quota sampling focuses on representation by setting fixed quotas for key characteristics that match the population’s proportions. In practice, you decide which traits matter (like gender, age group, region) and how many respondents from each category are needed to reflect the population. You continue sampling until all quotas are filled, ensuring the final sample mirrors the population with respect to those characteristics, even though you’re not using random selection within quotas. This differs from random sampling, which gives every individual an equal chance but doesn’t guarantee subgroup representation. It also differs from stratified sampling, which also aims for representative subgroups but uses random selection within each subgroup. Systematic sampling picks every kth unit from a list and doesn’t inherently ensure proportional representation of subgroups.

Quota sampling focuses on representation by setting fixed quotas for key characteristics that match the population’s proportions. In practice, you decide which traits matter (like gender, age group, region) and how many respondents from each category are needed to reflect the population. You continue sampling until all quotas are filled, ensuring the final sample mirrors the population with respect to those characteristics, even though you’re not using random selection within quotas.

This differs from random sampling, which gives every individual an equal chance but doesn’t guarantee subgroup representation. It also differs from stratified sampling, which also aims for representative subgroups but uses random selection within each subgroup. Systematic sampling picks every kth unit from a list and doesn’t inherently ensure proportional representation of subgroups.