A Level Psychology OCR Practice Exam

What technique was used to recruit participants for the study?

1. Random sampling

2. Purposive sampling

3. Convenience sampling

4. Stratified sampling

The correct answer is: Convenience sampling

The technique of convenience sampling is characterized by the selection of participants who are readily available to the researcher. This approach is often utilized in psychological studies when researchers seek to obtain a sample quickly and with minimal cost. Convenience sampling allows researchers to collect data from participants who are easy to access, such as students in a classroom or individuals at a public location, rather than employing more complex sampling methods that require extensive time and resources. This method is particularly beneficial when the aim is to gather preliminary data or when the research is exploratory in nature. However, it's worth noting that while convenience sampling can be efficient, it may lead to limitations in terms of the generalizability of the findings, as the sample may not represent the broader population adequately. In this context, the choice of convenience sampling aligns with research characteristics where access to participants is a priority, which further strengthens the relevancy of this technique in various psychological studies.