Hand-picking of subjects is done in which of the following sampling techniques?

IGNOU PB Bsc Entrance-2022

Nursing Research & Statistics

Easy

Appeared in: IGNOU PB Bsc Entrance-2022

Explanation

Purposive sampling, also known as judgmental sampling, involves the researcher using their expert judgment to select participants.
This method is described as "hand-picking" because subjects are chosen deliberately based on specific characteristics, knowledge, or experiences relevant to the study's purpose.
It is commonly used in qualitative research to gain in-depth insights from a specific group, rather than for statistical generalization to a whole population.
For example, a researcher might purposively select expert nurses to study their decision-making processes in critical care.

Option B: Quota sampling aims to create a sample that reflects the proportions of certain subgroups in the population. Selection is based on filling these quotas, often through convenience, not by hand-picking individuals for their unique expertise.
Option C: Convenience sampling involves selecting the most easily accessible subjects. The primary driver is ease of access and proximity, not the researcher's judgment about the subject's specific suitability for the study.
Option D: Cluster sampling is a probability sampling method. It involves the random selection of entire groups (clusters) from a population, not the deliberate selection of individual subjects. Individuals are not hand-picked.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Sampling techniques in research methodology as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
In nursing research, purposive sampling is valuable for exploring specific clinical phenomena in depth. For instance, a researcher might hand-pick patients who have successfully managed a chronic illness to understand their coping strategies.
It is also used to recruit expert participants, such as selecting experienced oncology nurses to develop a new patient education protocol.
What if? If a researcher wanted to ensure their sample of nurses from a hospital matched the hospital's overall distribution of male and female nurses, they would use Quota sampling, not Purposive sampling.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the key phrase in the question: "Hand-picking of subjects".
Recognize that "hand-picking" implies a deliberate, non-random selection process based on the researcher's judgment.
Review the definitions of the four sampling techniques provided as options.
Match the concept of "hand-picking" to the correct definition. Purposive sampling is defined as the researcher selecting subjects based on their specific purpose and judgment.
Eliminate the other options: Convenience is about ease of access, Quota is about filling subgroup numbers, and Cluster involves random selection of groups.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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