Programme: Master of Library & Information Science
Course: MLIS-09: Research Methodology
Target group: Master's students & Research Scholars
In
the previous lessons, we have seen how a researcher selects his problem,
formulates hypothesis, and selects the appropriate research method for carrying
out his research. In survey research, the researcher can collect data from the
entire population or by studying a small portion of the population
generalizations can be drawn for the population under study.
Thus
the required information can be obtained in two ways namely
1. Census
method or survey of the complete population
2. Sampling
method
In
the census method, data is collected from each and every unit of the universe. In
this method more accurate and exact information can be obtained as no unit in
the population is left out. However, if the population to be studied is very
large, census method is not useful because it involves lot of time, money,
manpower and administrative personnel. Therefore, this method can be used only
by big organizations or Government who have sufficient resources at their
disposal.
Sometimes, when the population is too large,
heterogeneous and geographically scattered,
it is not possible to study the entire population in detail. In such cases,
sampling method can be used. Sampling method makes it possible to study the
selected population more intensively and exhaustively.
Some Advantages and Limitations of Sampling are listed below:
Advantages
- Data collection, Analysis becomes easier
- It saves time and money
- Facilitates detailed study
- It is convenient to manage a small sample.
Limitations
- Improper sample leads to false, inaccurate and misleading results
- The size of the sample may not be representative of the total population
- Researcher needs specialized knowledge of sampling techniques