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Inferences based on Probability Sampling or Nonprobability Sampling: Are They Nothing but a Question of Models?
[journal article]
Abstract The inferential quality of an available data set, be it from a probability sample or a
nonprobability sample, is discussed under the standard of the representativeness of a sample
with regard to interesting characteristics, which implicitly includes the consideration of the total
survey error. Th... view more
The inferential quality of an available data set, be it from a probability sample or a
nonprobability sample, is discussed under the standard of the representativeness of a sample
with regard to interesting characteristics, which implicitly includes the consideration of the total
survey error. The paper focuses on the assumptions that are made when calculating an
estimator of a certain population characteristic using a specific sampling method, and on the
model-based repair methods, which can be applied in the case of deviations from these
assumptions. The different implicit assumptions regarding operationalization, frame, selection
method, nonresponse, measurement, and data processing are considered exemplarily for the
Horvitz-Thompson estimator of a population total. In particular, the remarkable effect of a
deviation from the assumption concerning the selection method is discussed. It is shown that
there are far more unverifiable, disputable models addressing the different implicit
assumptions needed in the nonprobability approach to sampling, including big data.
Moreover, the definition of the informative samples with respect to the expressed survey
purpose is presented, which complements the definition of the representativeness of samples
in the practice of survey sampling. Finally, an answer to the question in the title of this study is
given and detailed reports regarding the applied survey design are recommended.... view less
Keywords
inferential statistics; probability; sample; sampling theory; survey research; representativity; methodology; data collection method; survey; response behavior; measurement; data capture
Classification
Methods and Techniques of Data Collection and Data Analysis, Statistical Methods, Computer Methods
Free Keywords
Representativeness; Sample surveys; Sampling techniques; Survey methodology; total survey error
Document language
English
Publication Year
2019
Page/Pages
p. 1-9
Journal
Survey Methods: Insights from the Field (2019)
Issue topic
Probability and Nonprobability Sampling: Sampling of hard-to-reach survey populations
ISSN
2296-4754
Status
Published Version; peer reviewed