Sampling plan for the analysis of the medical income for the different cities. The sample will be used to determine the distribution of the general population among others.
Your goal for this week's independent project will be to create a sampling plan for a research question that you will formulate. This assessment will help you think critically about data collection/sampling methodologies that we learned this week.
Your expected sampling plan will contain the following sections:
Objectives and Reliability Requirements
A description of the sampling effort, the time frame, and the estimated parameter value(s). For example, the objective is determining the mean monthly value of parameter X during the crediting period. Target Population
A definition of the target population. A description of any particular features associated with the target population. Sampling Method
A selection and description of the sampling method e.g. simple random sampling, stratified sampling, cluster sampling, etc. Strata or clusters need to be clearly identified if sampling other than simple random sampling is to be used. Sample Size
Addressing and justifying the target number of units/pieces of equipment, solar cookers, buildings, motors, log-books, etc. which are to be studied (i.e. the sample size). Justification shall include the parameter of interest, the value it is expected to take and an estimate of the variance associated with the data. Sampling Frame
Identification or description of the sampling frame to be used. This shall agree with the information about the target population and sampling design above. For instance, if cluster sampling is to be used in a study of equipment in buildings, then the frame should be a listing of the buildings from which the sample will be selected.
Field Measurements
Identification of all the variables to be measured, and the timing and frequency of the measurements. Methods of measurement shall be described as appropriate.
Quality Assurance / Quality Control
Description of how to achieve good quality data, e.g. describing the procedures for conducting the data collection and/or field measurements including training of field personnel, provisions for maximizing response rates, documenting out-of-population cases, refusals and other sources of non-response, and related issues. Overall quality control and assurance strategy shall be documented in the plan. This shall include a procedure for defining outliers and under what circumstances measurements may be excluded and/or replaced. Analysis
Description of how the data will be used. Role of normality within the worked on data.
Implementation Plan
Definition of the schedule for implementing the sampling effort and identify who will conduct the actual data collection and the analyses. Inclusion of qualifications, experience and any potential conflicts of interest of those involved in the data collection and analyses. Kindly do note that you will not be required to perform any implementation within the scope of this IP.