Applicability of Probability Sampling Techniques in Social Science Research, Problems and Practices in Nigeria: A Sociological Analysis

Abstract

Research is the most important tool for advancing knowledge, for promoting progress and for enabling man to relate more effectively to his environment, to accomplish his purpose and resolve his conflicts. Research is focused towards the discovery of the relationships that exist among the phenomena of the world in which we live. Research arises when there is a problem. Social Science researches deal with events around man. The basic aim of social science research is to find an explanation to social events or phenomena. When such a study entails a large population, all of them cannot be studied. This is the basis for selecting a sample. A sample, is the portion of the population that is studied. There are two categories of sampling techniques, namely: probability and non-probability sampling techniques. Thus, the important of this work on the applicability of probability sampling techniques in social science researches, problems and practices in Nigeria: a sociological analysis cannot be over emphasizes.