Definition

Noun: - The selection of a random sample; each element of the population has an equal chance of being selected. This is a fundamental method in statistics and research where a subset of individuals (a sample) is chosen from a larger group (a population) by a process that gives every member of the population an equal probability of selection. This technique aims to produce a sample that is representative of the population, allowing for generalization of results.

Usage

• General Use: The term is used primarily in the contexts of statistics, research methodology, data science, and quality control to describe a specific, unbiased method of selecting study participants or data points.
• Key Principle: The core principle is randomness, meaning the selection is based on chance, not on researcher choice, convenience, or any systematic pattern.

Examples

• In a research paper: "To ensure the validity of our survey results, we used random sampling to select participants from the national voter registry."
• In a statistics lecture: "The most basic form of probability sampling is simple random sampling, often achieved using random number generators."
• In a business context: "The auditor performed random sampling of financial transactions to check for compliance."

Advanced Usage

• Simple Random Sampling: The most basic form, where every possible sample of a given size has the same chance of being selected.
• Stratified Random Sampling: The population is divided into subgroups (strata) based on shared characteristics, and random sampling is then applied within each stratum.
• Systematic Random Sampling: Selecting every th member from a list of the population after a random starting point. While systematic, the initial random start qualifies it as a form of random sampling.

Variants and Related Words

• Random Sample (n): The actual group of items or individuals selected through the process of random sampling.
  • The random sample consisted of 500 households from across the city.
• Randomly (adv): In a random manner.
  • Participants were randomly assigned to either the control or the treatment group.

Synonyms

• Probability Sampling: A broader category of sampling methods that use random selection, of which random sampling is a key type.
• Random Selection: A more general phrase often used interchangeably with random sampling.

Antonyms

• Non-probability Sampling: Sampling methods where not every member of the population has a known or equal chance of being selected (e.g., convenience sampling, purposive sampling).
• Convenience Sampling: Selecting individuals who are easiest to reach, which is not random sampling.
• Judgmental Sampling: Selection based on the researcher's judgment, which is not random sampling.

Noun

1. the selection of a random sample; each element of the population has an equal chance of been selected