Question

Why is it important for researchers to take a random sample of participants?

Answer 1

Simple random sampling is a method used to cull a smaller sample size from a larger population and use it to research and make generalizations about the larger group. It is one of several methods statisticians and researchers use to extract a sample from a larger population;

Simple random sample advantages include ease of use and accuracy of representation. No easier method exists to extract a research sample from a larger population than simple random sampling. There is no need to divide the population into sub-populations or take any steps further than plucking the number of research subjects needed at random from the larger group. Again, the only requirements are that randomness governs the selection process and that each member of the larger population has an equal probability of selection.