Types of Nonrandom Samples

Four nonrandom samples defined:

A convenience sample is a nonrandom sample in which respondents are selected on the basis of availability.

A purposive sample is a sample in which respondents are nonrandomly selected on the basis of a particular characteristics.

Network sample is a nonrandom sample in which respondents are asked to refer a researcher to other respondents; these people are contacted and asked for additional names, and so forth. this type of procedure is sometimes called the snowball technique.

Volunteer sample is a nonrandom sample in which respondents choose to participate in the study.