Kiintiöotannassa

Kiintiöotannassa is a Finnish term that translates to "quota sampling" in English. It is a non-probability sampling method used in statistical research and surveys. In quota sampling, the researcher identifies specific subgroups within the population of interest and sets a target number, or quota, for the number of participants to be selected from each subgroup. These quotas are typically based on known demographic characteristics of the population, such as age, gender, socioeconomic status, or geographic location.

The primary goal of quota sampling is to ensure that the sample obtained is representative of the population with respect to the chosen characteristics. However, unlike probability sampling methods, the selection of individuals within each quota is not random. Researchers are free to select participants who are readily available or convenient, as long as they meet the criteria for the specified quota. This convenience-based selection can introduce selection bias, as certain individuals within a subgroup may be more likely to be chosen than others.

Despite its limitations, quota sampling is often employed when probability sampling is impractical or too costly. It can be a useful tool for conducting quick surveys or when detailed demographic representation is crucial but random selection is not feasible. The results obtained from quota sampling should be interpreted with caution, acknowledging the potential for bias due to the non-random nature of participant selection. The effectiveness of quota sampling in achieving representativeness depends heavily on the researcher's ability to accurately define the population characteristics and to select participants without introducing undue bias within the quotas.