What Is the Population of Interest? Find Out and Avoid Survey Mistakes!

In general or in simple words the definition of “population of interest” is that it is a group of specific populations on which scientists do some research and gather the shreds of evidence with the help of that research they draw the final result. Market research software is the tool through which a conclusion based on pieces of evidence is drawn about the Population of interest. We can easily understand what is the population of interest with a simple example of cats. If you want to get proper data about cats then you have to collect the data about the population of all the cats from past, current time, and future.

One more important thing about the population of interest is that it is not only for humans, other organisms and entities can also be involved in it. For example, animals and objects can also become part of the target population. The population of interest is a group in which the group members which can be an organism or object share some characteristics. Research can also be done on the measurements hence it can also include in the population of interest.

The Sample – What Is and Why You Need It?

First of all, we have to understand what the sample is (representatives of desired entire population). So the group on which the research is done or which is required for research is called a sample.

Population of Interest Examples

For example, if the research is done on the group of lions then that group of lions is a sample. The technique with which the researcher decides to select the correct party for research (basing on population parameters) is called sampling.

Here is another example to understand the concept of sample and sampling. A scientist or researcher wants to do some research on that type of organism whose height is between 4 feet to 5 feet. Then after thinking about many factors he chooses children and thought that they would be the right candidate for that research. The group of children whose height is 4ft to 5 ft is the sample and the technique through which they are selected is called sampling.

In statistics population of interest is a general population (and its sample) about which person conducting the research wants to gather information and draw conclusions.

Factors of Sampling

Sampling Frame:

After the concept of sample and sampling now we will discuss the sampling frame. The sampling frame is a general list in which all the objects and entities are given on which the research is done. Only those entities become part of the frame which are the subject of the research any other thing which doesn’t fall in the criteria is rejected.

For example, your company is surveying employees.  The database of the company is the sampling frame because it contains all the information about the employees of the company.

Sample Size:

Several factors decide the number of individuals or objects in the sample frame. The variation in the population of interest played a very important role in deciding the sample size.

What are the methods of Sampling?

There are many sampling techniques but mainly only two techniques are mostly used to provide relevant data. Number one is probability sampling and number two is non-probability sampling. The parameter of interest is ensured under these two methods.

Probability Sampling Method:

The criteria of this method are that all the people get equal chances to participate in the survey without any biases.

There are four types of probability sampling:

1. Random Sampling:

All the employees of the company have an equal chance of participation in simple random sampling. In this technique, the sample is chosen randomly because it is based on equality.

2. Systematic sampling:

Systematic sampling is similar to Random Sampling but in systematic sampling, all the members are given a tag of number and the sample is chosen at a set of regular intervals.

3. Stratified Sampling:

In this technique, the members of the population are divided into groups. The population parameter of interest is a little bit different in it. After dividing into groups you can calculate the sample.

4. Cluster Sampling:

In this method, the population parameter of interest is similar to stratified sampling.  In this method, the population is also divided into groups but the division is based on similar characteristics.

Non-Probability Sampling Method:

In non-probability sampling, the population is selected on the preference of the researcher. All the population doesn’t get an equal chance of participation in it.

1. Convenience Sampling:

The researcher selects the population which he likes and according to his convenience. Hence this sampling is fully biased.

2. Snowball sampling:

This sampling is based on networking. The participant of the population gives the contact of another member who possesses the similar qualities required for research.

3. Judgment/ Purposive Sampling:

When a researcher selects the candidates based on his research and study then this selection is known as purposive or judgment sampling. The researcher put forward his research in the selection process and chooses the right one.

4. Quota Sampling:

The specific qualities or characteristics are the basis on which the researcher selects the right candidate for the research. So basically the selection is made on a quota system in it.

Now You Know What Population of Interest is – Let’s Start Collecting Data 

Now is the time to put theory into action. Startquestion is an online survey tool where you can conduct various types of research in the form of a survey. Try the free account for 14 days and use it for any:

• employee research
• customer research,
• market research, marketing research,
• questionnaires for education,
• user research, etc.

You can use ready survey examples created by experts, and conduct research even in a few minutes. Gather data & draw conclusions regarding your desired population of interest.