This module explores the two main approaches to sampling in research: probability and non-probability sampling. You will learn how different sampling methods are used to select participants or cases, examine the role of sampling frames in probability sampling, and evaluate the strengths, limitations, and practical applications of common non-probability sampling approaches, including convenience sampling.

This module examines the ethical and practical challenges involved in recruiting research participants, particularly from populations that may be difficult to define, access, or engage. You will explore key considerations when identifying and contacting potential participants, learn strategies for working with hard-to-reach groups, and evaluate the strengths and limitations of recruitment approaches such as snowball sampling.

This module explores sampling error and the factors that can affect how well a sample represents a wider population. You will examine the key sources of sampling error, including sampling variance and sampling bias, learn how issues such as non-response and incomplete sampling frames can influence research findings, and develop strategies for reducing error while balancing sample size with practical, ethical, and research considerations.

In addition to the glossary you’ll find woven throughout the course, you can find the full glossary collated in one place here.