NON PROBABILITY SAMPLING

Non-probability sampling does not involve the use of randomization. Therefore, to be

considered representative, non-probability sampling methods cannot rely on the theory of
probability (random theory). We can also use convenience sampling, purposive sampling or
quota sampling to get a representative sample relying on other techniques than
randomization.
1. Convenience Sampling
A convenience sample is simply one where the units that are selected for
inclusion in the sample are the easiest to access. In our example of the 10,000
university students, if we were only interested in achieving a sample size of say 100
students, we may simply stand at one of the main entrances to campus, where it would
be easy to invite the many students that pass by to take part in the research. You may
also use th students in the classroom as a sample or you can take volunteers to be
interviewed in survey research . in this case a convience sampling is perhaps better
than nothing. If you use convience sampling, be carefull in interpreting the findings
because you cannot generalize the findings from the sample you have chosen
2. Purposive Sampling
Purposive sampling, also known as judgmental, selective or subjective
sampling, reflects a group of sampling techniques that rely on the judgement of the
researcher when it comes to selecting the units (e.g., people, cases/organisations,
events, pieces of data) that are to be studied. These purposive sampling techniques
include maximum variation sampling, homogeneous sampling, typical case
sampling, extreme (or deviant) case sampling, total population sampling and expert
sampling. Each of these purposive sampling techniques has a specific goal, focusing
on certain types of units, all for different reasons. The different purposive sampling
techniques can either be used on their own or in combination with other purposive
sampling techniques.
The weakness of this sampling method is there is no reason to assume that the
units judged to be typical of the population will continue to be typical over a period
time. consequently, the result of a study using purposive sampling may be misleading.
 3. Quota Sampling
Quota sampling involves selecting typical cases from diverse strata of
population. The quotas are based on known characteristics of the population to which
you wish to generalize. For example, if census results show that 25 percent of the
population of an urban area lives in the suburbs, then 25 percent of the sample should
come from the suburbs.
The weakness of quota sampling is you simply do not know whether the
individuals chosen are representative of given stratum. Because the selection of
elements is likely to be based on accessibililty of convenience.

4. Snowball Sampling
Snowball sampling is a method in sampling where the first respondent refers
an acquaintance. The friend also refers a friend, and so on. Snowball sampling is
particularly appropriate when the population you are interested in
is hidden and/or hard-to-reach. These include populations such as drug addicts,
homeless people, individuals with AIDS/HIV, prostitutes, and so forth.
Such samples are biased because they give people with more social
connections an unknown but higher chance of selection, but lead to higher response
rates.

Source : http://dissertation.laerd.com/non-probability-sampling.php#step1