Research Methods for the Behavioral Sciences, 5th Edition Frederick J Gravetter – Test Bank

Complete Test Bank With Answers

 

 

Sample Questions Posted Below

 

1. The group of individuals from which researchers actually select participants for research studies is called the

____

population.

a. accessible

b. target

c. representative

d. real

ANSWER: a

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.01

–

Describe the relationship between a sample and the population (both target

CTIVES:

and accessible) in a research study and explain the importance of obtaining representative, as opposed

to biased, samples.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

2. Although a research question usually concerns the ____, the actual research participants are selected from the ____.

a. target population; accessible population

b. accessible population; target population

c. target population; sample

d. accessible population; sample

ANSWER: a

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.01

–

Describe the relationship between a sample and the population (both target

CTIVES:

and accessible) in a research study and explain the importance of obtaining representative, as opposed

to biased, samples.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

3. Dr. Cummings conducts an experiment on memory using participants above the age of 65. All people above the age of

65 would make up the ____.

a. sample

b. census

c. population

d. subgroup

ANSWER: c

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.01

–

Describe the relationship between a sample and the population (both target

CTIVES:

and accessible) in a research study and explain the importance of obtaining representative, as opposed

to biased, samples.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

4. Dr. Garza conducts an experiment on memory using participants above the age of 65. Because she cannot include all

people above the age of 65, she will selects what is known as a ____.

a. sample

b. census

c. population

d. subgroup

ANSWER: aDIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.01

–

Describe the relationship between a sample and the population (both target

CTIVES:

and accessible) in a research study and explain the importance of obtaining representative, as opposed

to biased, samples.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

5. A major goal of research is to

which they came.

____

from a small group of participants included in a study to the larger group from

a. deduce

b. generalize

c. specialize

d. reason

ANSWER: b

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.01

–

Describe the relationship between a sample and the population (both target

CTIVES:

and accessible) in a research study and explain the importance of obtaining representative, as opposed

to biased, samples.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

6. Which statement accurately describes the relationship between accessible populations and target populations?

a. The target population is contained within the accessible population.

b. The target population is also sometimes known simply as the population.

c. The accessible population is larger than the target population.

d. Everyone in the accessible population will participate in the research.

ANSWER: b

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.01

–

Describe the relationship between a sample and the population (both target

CTIVES:

and accessible) in a research study and explain the importance of obtaining representative, as opposed

to biased, samples.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

7. Although it is possible to obtain a sample with characteristics that are very different from the population through

random sampling, it is more likely that a nonrepresentative sample is the result of ____.

a. simple random sampling

b. selection bias

c. stratified selection

d. systematic selection

ANSWER: b

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.01

–

Describe the relationship between a sample and the population (both target

CTIVES:

and accessible) in a research study and explain the importance of obtaining representative, as opposed

to biased, samples.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply8. If the individuals in a sample have characteristics that are noticeably different from the individuals in the population,

then the sample is said to be ____.

a. representative

b. random

c. stratified

d. biased

ANSWER: d

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.01

–

Describe the relationship between a sample and the population (both target

CTIVES:

and accessible) in a research study and explain the importance of obtaining representative, as opposed

to biased, samples.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

9. When a sample has the same characteristics as the target population, the sample is said to be a(n)

a. representative

b. biased

c. target

d. accessible

____

sample.

ANSWER: a

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.01

–

Describe the relationship between a sample and the population (both target

CTIVES:

and accessible) in a research study and explain the importance of obtaining representative, as opposed

to biased, samples.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

10. To select a sample of five children from a class of 30, a researcher puts each child’s name on a slip of paper, then

shuffles the papers in a hat and randomly picks five names. What kind of sampling is being used?

a. quota

b. non-quota

c. probability

d. nonprobability

ANSWER: c

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.02

–

Explain the basic distinction between probability sampling methods and

CTIVES:

nonprobability sampling methods and recognize examples of these two sampling techniques when

they appear in research reports.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

11. A researcher recruits participants for an experiment by posting an announcement in the psychology department asking

for volunteers. What kind of sampling is being used?

a. quota

b. non-quota

c. probability

d. nonprobability

ANSWER: dDIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.02

–

Explain the basic distinction between probability sampling methods and

CTIVES:

nonprobability sampling methods and recognize examples of these two sampling techniques when

they appear in research reports.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

12. A snack food company is developing a new flavor for crackers and asks customers to text their preference between

two possibilities. What kind of sampling is being used?

a. quota

b. non-quota

c. probability

d. nonprobability

ANSWER: d

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.02

–

Explain the basic distinction between probability sampling methods and

CTIVES:

nonprobability sampling methods and recognize examples of these two sampling techniques when

they appear in research reports.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

13. For situations in which the researcher cannot know the complete list of potential participants, what kind is sampling is

necessary?

a. quota

b. non-quota

c. probability

d. nonprobability

ANSWER: d

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.02

–

Explain the basic distinction between probability sampling methods and

CTIVES:

nonprobability sampling methods and recognize examples of these two sampling techniques when

they appear in research reports.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

14. What kind of sampling technique requires that you can get a list of all the individuals in the population?

a. quota

b. convenience

c. probability

d. nonprobability

ANSWER: c

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.02

–

Explain the basic distinction between probability sampling methods and

CTIVES:

nonprobability sampling methods and recognize examples of these two sampling techniques when

they appear in research reports.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand15. A process that produces one outcome from a set of possible outcomes, produces an unpredictable outcome, and

guarantees that each of the possible outcomes equally likely is said to be ____.

a. random

b. stratified

c. non-probabilistic

d. biased

ANSWER: a

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

OBJ: GRAV.METH.16.05.03

–

Define simple random sampling, recognize this technique when it

CTIVES:

appears in a research report, and explain its strengths and weaknesses.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

16. If each person in a large group has an equal chance of being included in an experiment, then the researcher is using

____

sampling.

a. systematic

b. random

c. convenience

d. cluster

ANSWER: b

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.03

–

Define simple random sampling, recognize this technique when it appears

CTIVES:

in a research report, and explain its strengths and weaknesses.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

17. A method for nonprobability sampling is ____.

a. sampling with replacement.

b. convenience sampling

c. stratified sampling

d. sampling without replacement

ANSWER: b

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.03

–

Define simple random sampling, recognize this technique when it appears

CTIVES:

in a research report, and explain its strengths and weaknesses.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

18. The major advantage of a simple random sample is that it ensures that ____.

a. there will be enough participants in each subset to be able to make statistical decisions

b. no single group is over-represented in the sample

c. the sample will provide an accurate representation of the population

d. the selection procedure is unbiased although its outcome may be biased

ANSWER: d

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling MethodsLEARNING OBJE

CTIVES:

GRAV.METH.16.05.03

–

Define simple random sampling, recognize this technique when it appears

in a research report, and explain its strengths and weaknesses.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

19. Simple random sampling is least likely to ____.

a. b. c. d. ensure that each individual has an equal chance of selection

remove all bias and discrimination from the selection process

guarantee that every individual in the population has a chance of being selected

guarantee that the sample will be representative and unbiased

ANSWER: d

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.03

–

Define simple random sampling, recognize this technique when it appears

CTIVES:

in a research report, and explain its strengths and weaknesses.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

20. One characteristic of random sampling with replacement is that it ____.

a. allows for the same individual to be selected more than once

b. c. d. allows the probabilities to vary from one selection to the next

ensures that the probability of individual selection increases as selection progresses

can be used even if the entire population is unknown

ANSWER: a

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.03

–

Define simple random sampling, recognize this technique when it appears

CTIVES:

in a research report, and explain its strengths and weaknesses.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

21. A systematic sample does not qualify as a true random sample because ____.

a. the selection of the first individual is not random

b. c. d. ANSWER: b

the selections are not independent of each other

it does not use sampling with replacement

the entire population is not known

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

22. A professor teaching an introductory psychology class of 200 obtains a sample of 25 students by selecting every

eighth name from the class list. The professor is using

____

sampling.

a. simple random

b. convenience

c. proportionate stratified randomd. systematic

ANSWER: d

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

23. A teacher obtains a sample of children from a fifth grade classroom by randomly selecting the third, fifth, and eighth

rows and taking all the students in those rows. This is an example of

____

sampling.

a. simple random

b. systematic

c. cluster

d. stratified

ANSWER: c

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

24. A researcher would like to describe and compare the attitudes of four different ethnic groups of students at a local

state college. To obtain participants for the study while ensuring sufficient numbers of participants from each of the ethnic

groups, the researcher should probably use

____

sampling.

a. simple random

b. stratified random

c. cluster random

d. systematic

ANSWER: b

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

–

25. The primary advantage of a stratified random sample is that it ____.

a. b. c. d. ensures that group sizes will be adequate for statistical analysis

provides a sample that is guaranteed to be representative of the population

ensures that no single group is over-represented in the sample

does not require pre-existing knowledge about the population

ANSWER: a

DIFFICULTY: ModerateREFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

26. One criticism of a stratified random sample is that ____.

a. it is not based on a random selection process

b. the sample may not be representative of the population

c. some segments of the population will not be represented in the sample

d. it often prevents the use of more powerful statistical analyses

ANSWER: b

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

27. One criticism of proportionate stratified random sampling is that ____.

a. b. c. d. some segments of the population will be over-represented in the sample

statistical analysis may be impeded when subgroups are small

the sample is usually not representative of the population

some segments of the population will be under-represented in the sample

ANSWER: b

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

28. A researcher would like to examine the political attitudes for students at a local university. The researcher will

evaluate a sample of 200 students but would like to be sure that the ages and genders of individuals in the sample

accurately represent the ages and genders for the entire student body at the university. What would be the best sampling

method for the researcher to use?

a. simple random sampling

b. stratified random sampling

c. proportionate stratified random sampling

d. systematic sampling

ANSWER: c

DIFFICULTY: Difficult

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling MethodsLEARNING OBJE

CTIVES:

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

29. Psychology majors at the state college consist of 40% males and 60% females. The psychology department is

conducting a survey of its majors and obtains a sample by randomly selecting students so there will 20 males and 30

females from the list of psychology majors. What kind of sampling is used in this example?

a. stratified random

b. proportionate stratified random

c. systematic

d. quota

ANSWER: b

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

30. A cluster sample usually does not qualify as a true random sample because ____.

a. the specific groups selected are not selected by a random process

b. the selections are not independent of each other

c. the individuals within each group are usually not independent

d. replacement is typically included in the sampling procedure

ANSWER: c

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

31. The workers in a factory are organized into five-person teams. When conducting a work-environment survey, a

researcher randomly selected 10 teams to obtain a total sample of 50 workers. The researcher used

____

sampling.

a. simple random

b. stratified random

c. proportionate stratified random

d. cluster

ANSWER: d

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

32. The most commonly used sampling method in psychological research is probably

a. cluster

b. quota

c. simple random

d. convenience

____

sampling.

ANSWER: d

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.05

–

Describe the process of convenience sampling, recognize examples of this

CTIVES:

tech- nique in research reports, and explain why it is used and how researchers using this method can

limit the risk of a biased sample.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

33. A researcher recruits a sample of 25 preschool children for a research study by posting an announcement in a local

daycare center describing the study and offering a $10 payment for participation. What kind of sampling is the researcher

using?

a. cluster sampling

b. quota sampling

c. simple random sampling

d. convenience sampling

ANSWER: d

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.05

–

Describe the process of convenience sampling, recognize examples of this

CTIVES:

tech- nique in research reports, and explain why it is used and how researchers using this method can

limit the risk of a biased sample.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

34. Which sampling technique is most likely to result in a biased sample?

a. simple random sampling

b. convenience sampling

c. proportionate stratified random sampling

d. systematic sampling

ANSWER: b

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.05

–

Describe the process of convenience sampling, recognize examples of this

CTIVES:

tech- nique in research reports, and explain why it is used and how researchers using this method can

limit the risk of a biased sample.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

35. How does convenience sampling compare to probability sampling?

a. b. c. Convenience sampling is a more complex process.

Convenience sampling is a faster process.

Convenience sampling is more expensive.d. ANSWER: b

Convenience sampling minimizes the risk of bias.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.05

–

Describe the process of convenience sampling, recognize examples of this

CTIVES:

tech- nique in research reports, and explain why it is used and how researchers using this method can

limit the risk of a biased sample.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

36. A researcher would like to select a sample of 50 people so that five different age groups are equally represented in the

sample. Assuming that the researcher does not know the entire list of people in the population, which sampling technique

should be used?

a. quota sampling

b. stratified random sampling

c. proportionate stratified random sampling

d. cluster sampling

ANSWER: a

DIFFICULTY: Difficult

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJEC

GRAV.METH.16.05.06

–

TIVES:

reports, and explain why it is used.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

Describe quota sampling, recognize examples of this technique in research

37. The technique of quota sampling is most similar to

a. simple random

b. stratified random

____

sampling.

c. cluster

d. systematic

ANSWER: b

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJEC

GRAV.METH.16.05.06

–

TIVES:

reports, and explain why it is used.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

Describe quota sampling, recognize examples of this technique in research

38. Quota sampling produces the same advantages for convenience sampling that

____

sampling produces for probability

sampling.

a. stratified random

b. simple random

c. cluster

d. systematic

ANSWER: a

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJEC

GRAV.METH.16.05.06

–

TIVES:

reports, and explain why it is used.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

Describe quota sampling, recognize examples of this technique in research39. A sample consists of 25 freshmen, 25 sophomores, 25 juniors, and 25 seniors from a local high school that has an

equal number of students in each class. If the sample was obtained using a list of all the students in the high school, it is

probably an example of

____

sampling. If the sample was obtained without a list of students, it is likely an example of

____

sampling.

a. simple random; cluster

b. stratified random; quota

c. proportionate stratified random; quota

d. systematic; convenience

ANSWER: b

DIFFICULTY: Difficult

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJEC

GRAV.METH.16.05.06

–

Describe quota sampling, recognize examples of this technique in research

TIVES:

reports, and explain why it is used.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

40. A researcher wants to obtain a sample of 30 preschool children consisting of 10 two-year-old children, 10 three-year-

old, and 10 four-year-old children. Assuming that the children are obtained from local daycare centers, this researcher

should use

____

sampling.

a. cluster

b. quota

c. simple random

d. stratified random

ANSWER: b

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJEC

GRAV.METH.16.05.06

–

TIVES:

reports, and explain why it is used.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

Describe quota sampling, recognize examples of this technique in research

41. The accessible population is a subset of the target population.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.01

–

Describe the relationship between a sample and the population (both target

CTIVES:

and accessible) in a research study and explain the importance of obtaining representative, as opposed

to biased, samples.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

42. A large sample is generally more representative than a small sample.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to SamplingLEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.01

–

Describe the relationship between a sample and the population (both target

CTIVES:

and accessible) in a research study and explain the importance of obtaining representative, as opposed

to biased, samples.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

43. It is always necessary to have at least 25-30 participants in a study.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: False

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.01

–

Describe the relationship between a sample and the population (both target

CTIVES:

and accessible) in a research study and explain the importance of obtaining representative, as opposed

to biased, samples.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

44. Selection bias is likely to produce a sample with characteristics that are noticeably different from those in the

population.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.01

–

Describe the relationship between a sample and the population (both target

CTIVES:

and accessible) in a research study and explain the importance of obtaining representative, as opposed

to biased, samples.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

45. If you cannot list all the individuals in the population, then you cannot take a simple random sample.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.02

–

Explain the basic distinction between probability sampling methods and

CTIVES:

nonprobability sampling methods and recognize examples of these two sampling techniques when

they appear in research reports.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

46. When a researcher does not know the exact number of individuals in the population, it is necessary to use a

nonprobability sampling method.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to SamplingLEARNING OBJE

CTIVES:

GRAV.METH.16.05.02

–

Explain the basic distinction between probability sampling methods and

nonprobability sampling methods and recognize examples of these two sampling techniques when

they appear in research reports.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

47. One advantage of simple random sampling with replacement is that the likelihood of selecting one specific individual

does not depend on which other individuals are selected for the sample.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.03

–

Define simple random sampling, recognize this technique when it appears

CTIVES:

in a research report, and explain its strengths and weaknesses.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

48. Simple random sampling guarantees that the sample will be representative of the population.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: False

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.03

–

Define simple random sampling, recognize this technique when it appears

CTIVES:

in a research report, and explain its strengths and weaknesses.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

49. Using a simple random sample eliminates bias from the selection process.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.03

–

Define simple random sampling, recognize this technique when it appears

CTIVES:

in a research report, and explain its strengths and weaknesses.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

50. Simple random sampling without replacement means that the likelihood of selecting one specific individual will

depend on which other individuals are selected for the sample.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.03

–

Define simple random sampling, recognize this technique when it appears

CTIVES:

in a research report, and explain its strengths and weaknesses.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze51. Stratified random sampling is used instead of simple random sampling when a researcher wants to ensure that the

sample has specified characteristics.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

52. Stratified and proportionate stratified sampling both involve selecting individuals from predetermined subgroups in

the population.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

53. Although proportionate stratified sampling involves selecting individuals from predetermined subgroups of the

population, it does not guarantee that each subgroup in the sample will have a large number of individuals.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

54. When the goal of a research study is to describe and compare different subgroups in a known population, the best

strategy is to use proportionate stratified random sampling.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: False

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling MethodsLEARNING OBJE

CTIVES:

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

55. When a researcher wants a sample to accurately represent the composition of the population, the best strategy is to use

stratified random sampling.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: False

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

56. The most commonly used sampling methods in psychology are nonprobability sampling methods.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.05

–

Describe the process of convenience sampling, recognize examples of this

CTIVES:

tech- nique in research reports, and explain why it is used and how researchers using this method can

limit the risk of a biased sample.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

57. Convenience sampling involves selecting individuals who are easy to recruit.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Easy

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.05

–

Describe the process of convenience sampling, recognize examples of this

CTIVES:

tech- nique in research reports, and explain why it is used and how researchers using this method can

limit the risk of a biased sample.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

58. There is a strong possibility that a convenience sample will be biased.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling MethodsLEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.05

–

Describe the process of convenience sampling, recognize examples of this

CTIVES:

tech- nique in research reports, and explain why it is used and how researchers using this method can

limit the risk of a biased sample.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

59. When a researcher does not know the exact number of individuals in the population but still wants to control the

composition of a sample, the best technique is to use quota sampling.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: True

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.05

–

Describe the process of convenience sampling, recognize examples of this

CTIVES:

tech- nique in research reports, and explain why it is used and how researchers using this method can

limit the risk of a biased sample.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply

60. Stratified random sampling and quota sampling are both classified in the category of probability sampling techniques.

a. True

b. False

ANSWER: False

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

61. Describe the basic distinction between probability sampling and nonprobability and explain why most psychology

research uses nonprobability methods.

ANSWER: Probability sampling requires that you know all the individuals in the population (you can make a list)

and can assign a probability to each individual. Most psychology research concerns populations such

as preschool children or adolescents, and it is impossible to know all of the individuals in these

populations. On the other hand, nonprobability sampling does not require advance knowledge of the

entire population. This is a much more realistic situation for most psychology research.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.1 Introduction to Sampling

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.02

–

Explain the basic distinction between probability sampling methods and

CTIVES:

nonprobability sampling methods and recognize examples of these two sampling techniques when

they appear in research reports.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

62. Under what circumstances is a stratified random sample the most appropriate sampling method?

ANSWER: A stratified random sample is appropriate when researchers want to describe and compare different

subgroups that make up a population. This type of sampling ensures that each subgroup will be

represented with a guaranteed number of participants. Note, a stratified random sample is a

probability sample, so the entire population must be known.

DIFFICULTY: ModerateREFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

63. Under what circumstances is a proportionate stratified random sample the most appropriate sampling method?

ANSWER: A proportionate stratified random sample is appropriate when researchers are interested in the entire

population. This type of sampling ensures that the composition of the sample will provide an accurate

representation of the composition of the population. Note, a proportionate stratified random sample is

a probability sample, so the entire population must be known.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

CTIVES:

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Analyze

64. Explain why you are more likely to obtain a representative sample with proportionate stratified random sampling than

with either stratified random sampling or simple random sampling.

ANSWER: In a proportionate stratified sample, each of the subgroups in the sample has exactly the same

proportion as the corresponding subgroup in the population. For example, if 14% of the population is

between 30 and 39 years old, then exactly 14% of the sample will be in this same age range. Thus, the

composition of the sample exactly matches the composition of the population. A stratified random

sample has equal representation from each of the specified subgroups. For example, if there are four

subgroups in the population, then each will form 25% of the sample. However, the subgroups are

probably not equally represented in the population. For example, one group may comprise only 10%

of the population but will still make up 25% of the sample. Thus, the composition of the sample does

not accurately represent the composition of the population. Finally, simple random sampling lets pure

chance determine who is selected. As a result, a group that makes up 10% of the population can be

severely overrepresented or underrepresented in the sample, depending entirely on chance. Thus, there

is no guarantee that the composition of the sample will accurately represent the composition of the

population.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.03

–

Define simple random sampling, recognize this technique when it appears

CTIVES:

in a research report, and explain its strengths and weaknesses.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

65. Describe cluster sampling and identify some strengths and weaknesses of this technique.

ANSWER: Cluster sampling involves randomly selecting preexisting clusters or groups instead of randomly

selecting individuals. The main advantages are (1) it is easy to obtain a large sample quickly, and (2)

because the participants are already organized in groups, it is often easy and convenient to test them

as a group. For example, you could hand out questionnaires to an entire class instead of giving

questionnaires to one person at a time. The main concern with cluster sampling is that the individuals

within a cluster may not be independent. If the clusters consist of families, for example, it is likely

that all of the family members share some common interests and common experiences.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.2 Probability Sampling MethodsLEARNING OBJE

CTIVES:

GRAV.METH.16.05.04

–

Describe the four probability sampling methods presented in the book, other

than simple random sampling (stratified random, proportionate stratified random, systematic, and

cluster), recognize these techniques when they appear in research reports, and explain the strengths

and weaknesses of each.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

66. Explain why researchers feel reasonably comfortable using convenience sampling when this technique is likely to

produce biased samples.

ANSWER: Most researchers attempt to select convenience samples that are reasonably representative by ensuring

that the sample contains a sensible variety of individuals and is not obviously biased. Thus, although

the sample may come entirely from students at a Midwest college, the researcher makes sure that the

individuals are reasonably representative of college students anywhere in the country. Also,

researchers are careful to provide a clear description of how their samples are obtained and the

characteristics of the individuals involved. In this way, other researchers are aware of any unique

characteristics or possible bias in the samples.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.05

–

Describe the process of convenience sampling, recognize examples of this

CTIVES:

tech- nique in research reports, and explain why it is used and how researchers using this method can

limit the risk of a biased sample.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Understand

67. Explain how quota sampling can be used to simulate stratified random sampling or proportionate stratified random

sampling in situations where the entire population is not known.

ANSWER: Quota sampling can simulate stratified random sampling by setting equal quotas for each of the

subgroups that make up the population. Quota sampling can simulate proportionate stratified random

sampling by setting quotas that correspond to the actual proportions that exist in the population. For

example, if the population is known to have 11% Hispanics (even though the exact number is not

known), a quota of 11% Hispanics could be set for the sample.

DIFFICULTY: Moderate

REFERENCES: 5.3 Nonprobability Sampling Methods

LEARNING OBJE

GRAV.METH.16.05.06

–

Describe quota sampling, recognize examples of this technique in research

CTIVES:

reports, and explain why it is used.

KEYWORDS: Bloom’s: Apply