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Access Type
WSU Access
Date of Award
January 2012
Degree Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Ph.D.
Department
Education Evaluation and Research
First Advisor
Shlomo Sawilowsky
Abstract
Although not as efficient as simple random sampling, cluster sampling has been regarded as a valid sampling technique when the researcher is attempting to save cost. However in order to do so, it is necessary that random selection occurs in all stages of sampling. This simulation study examines purposeful selection of cluster sampling in the second stage of a two stage cluster design. Using Monte Carlo methods a simulation was conducted comparing the random selection of both stages of a two stage cluster sample to purposeful selection of the second stage of a two stage cluster sample. The study compares purposeful selection to random selection by examining the range of the confidence interval that is returned for each simulation. After conducting the study, it was evident that using purposeful selection can yield a confidence interval up to nine times greater than that of its random counterpart.
Recommended Citation
Parrott, Jason Christopher, "The effect of nonrandom selection of clusters in a two stage cluster design" (2012). Wayne State University Dissertations. Paper 579.
http://digitalcommons.wayne.edu/oa_dissertations/579