Gelegenheitsstichprobe

Gelegenheitsstichprobe, also known as convenience sampling, is a non-probability sampling technique where subjects are selected because of their convenient accessibility and proximity to the researcher. This method involves recruiting participants who are readily available and easy to reach, without strict adherence to randomization or representativeness of a larger population. The ease of access and lower cost are significant advantages of this approach.

However, the primary drawback of Gelegenheitsstichprobe is its inherent lack of generalizability. Because the sample is not randomly selected, it is unlikely to accurately reflect the characteristics of the target population. This selection bias can lead to skewed results and conclusions that may not be valid beyond the sampled group. Consequently, Gelegenheitsstichprobe is often used in exploratory research or pilot studies where establishing broad generalizability is not the primary objective, but rather to gain initial insights or test feasibility. Researchers must clearly acknowledge the limitations of this sampling method when interpreting and reporting their findings.