one page journal

Three Part Journal

This week’s readings covered various types of sampling design. The entirety of the reading was interesting as all of the information is new to me. Prior to this week, as we have been exclusively been exploring research design, every example that we have been given has included simple random sampling. I was under the impression that this way in which the sample is selected was concrete. Now that I have had the opportunity to review the other types of sampling designs, it makes complete since why the variation in design is needed. As a sample is to be representative of a larger population, it is important that the sample actually and accurately represents that population. Knowing the errors that could occur if the right sampling design is not chosen for a study is eye opening, and reiterates importance of this step. Although even carefully selected samples will not be a perfect representation, getting as close as possible to perfect is important for the validity of any research. The easiest design to comprehend was the stratified sampling designs. My main concern would be outlining the different variables that may apply to a chosen sample, and determining which may be important enough in my research to stratify the sample for. Truthfully, when reviewing journal articles and research, I have kind of glazed over the methodology section (especially the portion in which the sample selection was discussed) as I was unclear on the subject. This week’s reading is building on my knowledge and understanding of research methods as a whole. I now have a greater understanding of 1-determining the best research design for my future research to ensure research validity and 2-determining the best sampling method to ensure sample validity. I now feel better equipped to not only plan for my future research, but to complete literature reviews. I can even go back and examine research that I have reviewed in the past and look over their sampling selection methods; giving me a better understanding of their research. As I plan to continue with this research trajectory for my Master’s Thesis, this reading will be helpful in not only completing the final project for this course, but in my Master’s Thesis work as well. Ultimately the readings thus far have given me a better idea of how to approach my thesis, which at the beginning of this course was an overwhelming thought. I am sure that I will refer back to this material throughout the writing process.