Calculate the sampling interval according to systematic sampling technique when your sample size is 200 and your accessible population is 40,000?

1. A

   400

2. B

   2000

3. C

   4000

4. D

   200

Appeared in: AIIMS Manglagiri NO - 2019

Explanation

• The sampling interval (k) is a core component of the systematic sampling method used in research.
• It is calculated using the formula: k = N / n, where N is the total population size and n is the desired sample size.
• In this problem, the total population (N) is 40,000 and the desired sample size (n) is 200.
• Plugging the values into the formula gives: k = 40,000 / 200.
• The result of the division is 200, which is the sampling interval.

Why Other Options Were Wrong

• Option A: A value of 400 would be the correct sampling interval if the sample size was 100 (40,000 / 100 = 400), not 200. This represents an error in using the correct sample size for the calculation.
• Option B: A value of 2000 is a result of a calculation error, likely a misplaced decimal or incorrect division. To get this interval, the sample size would need to be 20 (40,000 / 20 = 2000).
• Option C: A value of 4000 is a significant miscalculation. This would be the interval if the required sample size was only 10 (40,000 / 10 = 4000).

Related Visual

Clinical Relevance

• Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Calculation of Sampling Interval in Systematic Sampling as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
• Understanding sampling methods is crucial for nurse researchers when conducting studies to ensure the findings are representative and can be generalized to the larger patient population.
• In a clinical setting, a nurse manager might use systematic sampling to select patient charts for a quality audit (e.g., checking every 10th chart for documentation completeness).
• This method is more straightforward and less resource-intensive than simple random sampling, making it practical for many nursing research and quality improvement projects.

How to Approach the Question

• First, identify that the question is asking for a specific calculation related to a research methodology: the sampling interval for systematic sampling.
• Recall the formula for the sampling interval: k = N / n.
• Identify the values provided in the question: Total Population (N) = 40,000 and Sample Size (n) = 200.
• Substitute these values into the formula: k = 40,000 / 200.
• Perform the division to find the value of k.
• Compare your calculated result with the given options to find the correct answer.

Concept Tested & Keywords

• Concept Tested: Calculation of Sampling Interval in Systematic Sampling
• Stem keywords: sampling interval, systematic sampling, sample size, accessible population
• Lead-in keywords: Calculate

Question ID

QEm_bkATjkoskncJwF7DZQ

Copy ID

Reference Book

E6 NursingResearch Sukhpal Kaur pp. 253-255, 254-256