Here's what the course includes...
Course Overview
Survey research success requires current, foundational knowledge of sampling strategy. Today, the 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 has required 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:
- How do we define our population of interest?
- What options exist for calculating the needed sample size?
- What is the practical difference between probability and non-probability samples?
- Is “random sampling” an option?
- Should we use stratified sampling?
- What can we do to mitigate the risk or impact of non-response bias?
- Should we weight the data?
- How do sampling decisions vary based on online, phone or mixed-mode data collection?
- How do we know if our survey data is representative of the population we are studying?
As a student, you get lots of helpful videos, readings and reference material.
Take a look inside the course
Course curriculum
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1
Welcome
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Getting Ready to Rock!
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Textbook
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Pre-Assignment Reading and Quiz
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2
Introduction to Sampling
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Lesson Plan
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Introduction to Sampling [Lecture]
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Introduction to Sampling [Slide Viewer]
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Introduction to Sampling [Slide File Download]
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Rockstar Practice
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3
Defining the Population of Interest
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Lesson Plan
FREE PREVIEW -
Defining the Population of Interest [Lecture]
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Defining the Population of Interest [Slide Viewer]
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Defining the Population of Interest [Slide File Download]
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Rockstar Practice
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4
Sample Sizes
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Lesson Plan
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Sample Sizes [Lecture]
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Sample Sizes [Slide Viewer]
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Sampling Sizes [Slide File Download]
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5
Bonus Resources
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Recommended Reading & Viewing
FREE PREVIEW -
Job Aid: Sampling Plan Example A
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6
Assessment
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Your Research Rockstar Status Awaits: Final Assessment
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Meet Your Instructor

Jeff McKenna
Founder, MCK Insights
Frequently Asked Questions
We are committed to advancing the work, and careers, of Market Research & Insights Professionals
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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.
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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!
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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.
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Can I get a group discount?
Teams of 3 or more students are offered Team Pricing. Please see our Team Pricing page.