Asking chatgpt to comment on the value of questionnaire survey using convenience sampling: a note of Housing Studies students

Asking chatgpt (accessed via poe.com) to comment on the value of questionnaire survey using convenience sampling: a note of Housing Studies students:

My question 1 is: "what are the main characteristics of convenience sampling?"

The reply from chatgpt is: "Convenience sampling is a non-probability sampling technique characterized by the following main features:

1. Ease of Access

Participants are selected based on their availability and willingness to participate, making it quick and easy to recruit a sample.

2. Non-Random Selection

The selection process does not involve randomization. This can lead to biases, as the sample may not represent the broader population.

3. Cost-Effective

It tends to be less expensive and time-consuming compared to other sampling methods, such as random sampling.

4. Limited Generalizability

Findings may not be generalizable to the entire population due to the specific characteristics of the chosen sample. The results reflect the views of a homogeneous group rather than a diverse population.

5. Potential for Bias

The sample may be skewed because it often consists of individuals who are easy to reach (e.g., friends, family, colleagues), which can affect the validity of the results.

6. Flexibility

Researchers can easily adjust their approach or add more participants as needed, providing flexibility in data collection.

7. Common in Exploratory Research

Often used in exploratory studies where the goal is to gather initial insights rather than to make broad generalizations.

In summary, while convenience sampling can offer quick and accessible data, it is crucial to recognize its limitations regarding representativeness and potential biases."

My question 2 is: "I am a part-time Housing Studies student, currently learning the subject of Research Methods and working on my Research Methods assignment. I would like to carry out a questionnaire survey on my friends to learn their view on whether middle-aged homeless females deserve more financial help from the Hong Kong government. My question 2: is a questionnaire survey using convenience sampling on my friends able to produce reasonably valid empirical data for research purpose, especially if I am only able to obtain about 80 survey replies?"

The reply from chatgpt is: "Using a questionnaire survey with convenience sampling on your friends can provide some insights, but there are important considerations regarding the validity and generalizability of your findings:

Advantages:

Quick and Easy: Convenience sampling allows for rapid data collection since you can easily access your friends.

Exploratory Insights: It can provide preliminary insights or qualitative data that might inform further research.

Limitations:

Sample Bias: Your friends may share similar views or backgrounds, which can limit the diversity of opinions. This bias can affect the representativeness of your sample.

Generalizability: Findings from this small, specific group may not be applicable to the broader population of Hong Kong, especially regarding attitudes toward middle-aged homeless females.

Limited Sample Size: While 80 responses can be useful, the small size and non-random nature of the sample may not yield statistically significant results.

Recommendations:

Broaden Your Sample: Consider including acquaintances or extending your reach to other networks to enhance diversity.

Use Mixed Methods: Combine quantitative data from your survey with qualitative insights from interviews or open-ended questions to enrich your findings.

Acknowledge Limitations: Be transparent in your research about the sampling method and its limitations when discussing your results.

In summary, while you can gather useful information from your friends, be mindful of the limitations and consider strategies to improve the robustness of your research."

Reference: a collection of blog notes on using chatgpt for research purpose.