58. A researcher uses a computer to obtain a sample of city residents so each resident has an equal chance of being selected. Which sampling method is being used?
Answer: D
Simple random sampling is being used.
The sampling method being used is simple random sampling, where each city resident has an equal chance of being selected for the sample.
A) Judgment
Judgment sampling involves selecting individuals based on the researcher's subjective criteria rather than giving every member of the population an equal chance of selection. This method does not ensure that every city resident has an equal opportunity to be chosen, making it incorrect in this context.
B) Convenience
Convenience sampling selects individuals who are easiest to reach or sample, rather than randomly selecting from the entire population. This method fails to provide an equal chance for all city residents to be included, thus it is not applicable here.
C) Stratified
Stratified sampling divides the population into subgroups (strata) and samples from each subgroup. While this method ensures representation from various segments, it does not provide each resident an equal chance of selection in the same manner as simple random sampling does.
D) Simple random
Simple random sampling is characterized by the principle that every individual in the population has an equal probability of being selected. This method aligns perfectly with the description provided, as the researcher uses a computer to ensure that each city resident has an equal chance of being chosen.
Conclusion
Simple random sampling is the definitive correct answer because it guarantees equal selection probability for each individual in the population, which is the key aspect of the scenario described. All other options fail to provide this equal opportunity, making them incorrect in this context.