AQA GCSE · Question 17.6 · Data Collection and Sampling Methods
What is good about Tom finding opinions in this way?
How to approach this question
Think about the practical advantages of opportunity sampling. How does it compare to a more complex method like random sampling in terms of time, effort, and cost?
Full Answer
The main advantage of opportunity/convenience sampling is its practicality. It is:
- **Quick:** Tom can gather his sample of 100 people in a relatively short amount of time.
- **Easy:** It does not require a complex selection process or a full list of the target population (a sampling frame).
- **Inexpensive:** It requires minimal resources to implement compared to other methods that might involve travel or generating lists.
Common mistakes
✗ Stating that the method is accurate or representative (it is not).\n✗ Giving a disadvantage instead of an advantage.
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