Judgmental sampling

Definition

Judgmental sampling is a non-probability sampling technique where the researcher selects subjects based on their judgment and the specific purpose of the study. This method relies on the expertise of the researcher to choose individuals or sites that are believed to be representative of a larger population or that may yield significant information for the research question.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Judgmental sampling is often used in exploratory research, where the aim is to gain insights rather than to make statistical inferences.
2. This method can lead to bias since it relies heavily on the researcher's subjective judgment about which subjects are most relevant.
3. Judgmental sampling is particularly useful in archaeology when researchers focus on specific sites or artifacts that are deemed critical for understanding a particular context.
4. The effectiveness of judgmental sampling depends on the researcher's knowledge and experience in selecting subjects that provide valuable information.
5. While it can yield rich qualitative data, results from judgmental sampling cannot be generalized to the entire population due to its non-random nature.

Review Questions

• How does judgmental sampling differ from other sampling techniques in archaeological research?
  • Judgmental sampling differs from other sampling techniques, such as random or stratified sampling, because it does not rely on random selection. Instead, it depends on the researcher’s expertise to choose specific subjects believed to provide insightful data. This method is particularly advantageous in archaeological contexts where researchers may focus on significant sites or artifacts that can help answer specific research questions, rather than trying to obtain a representative sample.
• What are some advantages and disadvantages of using judgmental sampling in archaeological surveys?
  • One advantage of using judgmental sampling in archaeological surveys is that it allows researchers to focus on specific areas or artifacts that are critical for their research objectives. This targeted approach can lead to richer qualitative insights and more meaningful interpretations. However, a significant disadvantage is the potential for bias introduced by the researcher's subjective decisions, which can limit the reliability and generalizability of the findings.
• Evaluate how judgmental sampling can influence the interpretation of archaeological findings and its implications for broader archaeological knowledge.
  • Judgmental sampling can significantly influence the interpretation of archaeological findings by directing attention toward specific subjects that may not represent the wider population. This selective focus may lead to important discoveries but can also result in a skewed understanding of cultural patterns or behaviors if other relevant sites or artifacts are overlooked. Consequently, while it allows for depth in analysis, it raises concerns about the completeness and objectivity of broader archaeological knowledge, necessitating caution when integrating findings from judgmental samples into overarching narratives.

Related terms

Non-probability sampling: A sampling technique where not all individuals have a chance of being selected, often used in qualitative research.

Representative sample: A subset of a population that accurately reflects the characteristics of the larger group, which is crucial for generalizing findings.

Stratified sampling: A sampling method where the population is divided into subgroups, and samples are drawn from each subgroup to ensure representation.