Session 4: Sampling: Who Did You Ask?
A survey is only as good as its sample. Learn why representative sampling matters and how bias sneaks in.
Your Progress
Lessons 1-4
Practice
Session Quiz
Review
Learning Objectives
By the end of this session, you will be able to:
- Define sampling and explain why it is necessary
- Distinguish between representative and biased samples
- Identify common types of sampling bias
- Design sampling strategies that produce reliable results
Why This Matters
Every poll, survey, and study depends on its sample. If the sample is biased, the conclusions are wrong — no matter how good the math is.
Session Lessons
1
Why We Sample
You cannot ask everyone. Sampling lets you learn about a large group by studying a smaller one.
~30 minutes Discussion
2
Representative Sampling
Learn how to select a sample that looks like the population you are studying.
~30 minutes Activity
3
When Samples Go Wrong
Explore real-world examples of biased samples that led to wrong conclusions.
~30 minutes Discussion
4
Evaluating Real Surveys
Practice evaluating real-world polls and surveys. Are the samples representative?
~30 minutes Activity