In this statement describing the methodology of a research study, how was the snowball sample obtained?

Stratified random sampling is the type of sampling method that the researcher should choose to best answer the study question. Stratified random sampling is a type of probability sampling technique that involves dividing the population into homogeneous subgroups or strata based on a relevant characteristic or variable, and then selecting a random sample from each stratum using simple random sampling or systematic sampling. The proportion of participants from each stratum can be proportional or disproportional to their representation in the population. Stratified random sampling ensures that each subgroup or stratum is adequately represented in the sample, and that the sample is more representative and generalizable to the population. In this study question, the researcher wants to compare the adherence to a daily exercise regimen between clients discharged in warmer months and those discharged in colder months from a postoperative orthopedic unit. Therefore, the researcher can use stratified random sampling to divide the population of clients discharged from the orthopedic unit after joint replacement surgery during the past 12 months into two strata based on the season of discharge (warmer months or colder months), and then select a random sample from each stratum using simple random sampling or systematic sampling.


The other options are not correct because:

Quota sampling is a type of non-probability or convenience sampling technique that involves selecting participants who meet certain criteria or quotas until the desired sample size or proportion is reached. Quota sampling does not ensure that each participant has an equal chance of being selected, and that the sample is representative and generalizable to the population. In this study question, quota sampling would not be appropriate because it would not guarantee that the clients discharged in warmer months and those discharged in colder months are randomly and representatively selected from the population.

True random sampling is a type of probability sampling technique that involves selecting participants from a list or population using a random number generator or table. True random sampling ensures that each participant has an equal chance of being selected, and that the sample is representative and generalizable to the population. However, true random sampling does not ensure that each subgroup or stratum is adequately represented in the sample, and that the sample is more representative and generalizable to the population. In this study question, true random sampling would not be appropriate because it would not guarantee that the clients discharged in warmer months and those discharged in colder months are equally and proportionally represented in the sample.

Convenience sampling is a type of non-probability or convenience sampling technique that involves selecting participants who are easily available and accessible to the researcher. Convenience sampling does not ensure that each participant has an equal chance of being selected, and that the sample is representative and generalizable to the population. In this study question, convenience sampling would not be appropriate because it would not guarantee that the clients discharged in warmer months and those discharged in colder months are randomly and representatively selected from the population.