Here's what the course includes...

Course Overview

Survey research success requires current, foundational knowledge of sampling strategy. Today, professional survey researchers need to know both the theory and practical considerations needed for a sampling plan that will result in high-quality data. Survey researchers dealing with declining response rates, over-surveyed populations, and sample source quality concerns require considerable knowledge and strategy.

During this 3-part course, students will learn sampling fundamentals and real-world strategies. This course includes a digital textbook, which will be delivered to the student by email. Please note that this course requires reading, and the student will be assigned 25-30 pages of reading each of the three weeks.

Upon conclusion, students will be able to advise clients on colleagues on issues such as: 

    • Correctly define the population of interest
    • Calculate the sample size needed 
    • Advise when to use probability and non-probability samples
    • Mitigate the risk of non-response bias
    • Decide if weighting should be applied to the data set

As a student, you get lots of helpful videos, readings and reference material.

Take a look inside the course

Course curriculum

  • 1

    Welcome

    • Getting Ready to Rock!

    • Access Your Live Sessions Here

    • Request Your Textbook

  • 2

    Introduction to Sampling

    • Pre-Assignment Reading and Quiz

    • Lesson Plan

    • Introduction to Sampling [Lecture]

    • Introduction to Sampling [Slide Viewer]

    • Introduction to Sampling [Slide File Download]

    • Rockstar Practice: Assignment A

  • 3

    Defining the Population of Interest

    • Lesson Plan

    • Defining the Population of Interest [Lecture]

    • Defining the Population of Interest [Slide Viewer]

    • Defining the Population of Interest [Slide File Download]

    • Rockstar Practice: Assignment B

  • 4

    Sample Sizes

    • Lesson Plan

    • Sample Sizes [Lecture]

    • Sample Sizes [Slide Viewer]

    • Sample Sizes [Slide File Download]

  • 5

    Bonus Resources

    • Recommended Reading & Viewing

    • Job Aid: Sampling Plan Example A

    • Job Aid: Sampling Plan Example B

  • 6

    Assessment

    • Your Rockstar Status Awaits: Final Assessment

  • 7

    Our Short Feedback Survey

    • Your candid feedback helps us improve

Meet Your Instructor

Jeff McKenna

Founder, MCK Insights

Industry veteran, Jeff McKenna, is the founder of MCK Insights and he provides a deep background in the design and delivery of market research projects, particularly in the area of data processing, advanced methodologies and data reporting. He has years of experience in new product development, segmentation, brand development, customer satisfaction and tracking projects. And Jeff has delivered strategic and actionable solutions to clients at all levels in client organizations (from market researchers to CEOs), including complex customer experience, segmentation, brand tracking and integrated EFM programs. He has designed and delivered CX programs for several Fortune 500 companies, incorporating customer feedback with several other internal data sources. He has designed and implemented reporting platforms used by thousands of service and marketing managers in multiple industries. More than simply delivering data, each solution enables users to prioritize action planning and estimate financial value associated with different performance levels. Jeff has a BA in Sociology/Anthropology from Swarthmore College and an MBA from The George Washington University.

Frequently Asked Questions

We are committed to advancing the work, and careers, of Market Research & Insights Professionals

  • What is 'hybrid eLearning'?

    Many Research Rocksktar students enjoy the schedule flexibility of our on-demand training format. That's great! But for those seeking an interactive experience with real-time instructor demonstrations and support, nothing beats our real-time sessions! All Research Rockstar courses are offered twice a year in real-time. And 24/7 in the on-demand format.

  • Why memberships?

    Most of our students are working professionals with busy schedules. Sometimes they intend to complete training more quickly than the reality of looming project deadlines allow. With a membership, students have access to all of their classes. No time-outs!

  • Can I get a Free Sample?

    Yes. We offer free previews of 5 courses. Just select the course—or courses—of interest. Be sure to watch a lecture, read a case study or even try a sample quiz.

  • Can I get a group discount?

    Teams of 5 or more students are offered team pricing. For more information, please see our Team Pricing page.

Ready to Rock?

Get access to this course and 25+ market research courses with a Backstage Pass membership.

Join Now