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Critical Review:
John Peterson
Keiser University
EDR800
Dr. Larry Pace
CRITICAL REVIEW 2
Statistical Techniques
comparison, deterministic methods are used where the data is easily reproducible or where its
behavior is determined entirely by its initial stage and inputs” (BusinessDictionary.com, 2010,
para.1).
However, in order to better comprehend the meaning of this definition we should consult
Gall et al. (1996); these authors explained that when designing a survey researchers create a plan
that involves selecting a sample, collecting data, and analyzing the data.
In order to achieve these tasks researchers apply statistical techniques to check if tests
and other instruments present valid and reliable measures. A research plan is a detailed
Sample
selected for a study in such a way that the larger group from which these individuals were
The intent of sampling is to obtain information about a larger population (Gay, 2003). A
population which the researcher aims to investigate and generate results from the study is
referred as a target population, although the population that is selected by the researcher from a
Gay (2003) explained that the steps to be taken on sampling are: (a) to identify the
population; (b) to determine the required sample size and (c) to select the sample.
Samples can be selected on a way that all individuals in the defined population have the
same chance of being selected for the sampling (Gay, 2003). Gay (2003) stated that random
sampling “involves defining the population, identifying each member of the population and
selecting individuals for the sample on a complete chance basis” (p. 117).
Stratified sampling.
Cluster sampling.
Systematic sampling.
According to Gay (2003), samples should as large as possible. Gay (2003) advised that
the larger the sampling most likely it will be more representative of the population, and it will
better generalize the results of the study. Minimum acceptable sampling sizes will depend on the
type of research; there are no defined minimum acceptable sampling sizes (Gay, 2003).
Data Collection
A survey study begins with the purpose of the survey, and then the identification of the
population and of the sampling is discussed. However, the survey instruments to be used, the
relationship between the variables, and the research question are also very important components
Gall et al. (1996) described the use of questionnaires and interviews as data-collection
instruments. Gall et al. (1996) explained that questionnaires have “two advantages over
interviews for collecting research data” (p. 289): one is cost, and the other is the other is time.
CRITICAL REVIEW 4
Although interviews have the major advantage of being adaptable, when, according to Gall et al.
(1996), interviewers “can follow up a respondent’s answer to obtain more information and
Gall et al. (1996) suggested the following steps in constructing and administering a
research questionnaire:
2. Select a sample.
Gall et al. (1996) suggested the following steps in preparing and conducting research
interviews:
2. Select a sample.
4. Develop questions.
Gall et al. (1996) explained that many researchers rather do their own observations
Conclusion
techniques, sampling, and data collection. This relationship is based on the concept of research,
as explained by Kumar (2005), “research is a process for collecting, analyzing, and interpreting
References
http://www.businessdictionary.com/definition/statistical-methods.html
Creswell, J. (2003). Research design: Quantitative, qualitative, and mixed method approaches
Gay, L. R. (2003). Educational research: Competencies for analysis and applications (7th ed.).
Gall, M., Borg, W. & Gall, J. (1996). Educational research: An introduction (6th ed.). Boston,
MA: Pearson
Kumar, R. (2005). Research methodology: A step-by-step guide for beginners (2nd ed.).