In regard to my original question I now think that the sampling method would be cluster sampling. Is that correct?
To determine if the sampling method would be cluster sampling, you need to consider the characteristics of cluster sampling and how it aligns with your research objectives.
Cluster sampling is a method where the population is divided into different groups or clusters, and a random sample of clusters is selected. All individuals within the selected clusters are included in the sample. This method is often used when it is impractical or costly to sample individuals from each element of the population directly.
To confirm if cluster sampling is appropriate in your case, ask yourself the following questions:
1. Is your population divided into natural clusters? Cluster sampling is chosen when the population can be naturally grouped into clusters. For instance, if you are sampling students, you might divide them into different schools, and each school becomes a cluster.
2. Are you interested in studying the characteristics of each cluster? Cluster sampling is useful when you want to examine specific characteristics or properties of each cluster. For example, if you want to analyze school performance, each cluster (school) would be of interest.
3. Is it more feasible to sample clusters rather than individual elements? Cluster sampling is chosen when it is impractical to sample individuals directly and instead, it is easier or more cost-effective to sample clusters.
So, if your research objective involves naturally occurring clusters and you are interested in examining characteristics at the cluster level, and it is more feasible to sample clusters rather than individuals, then cluster sampling may be an appropriate choice.
However, without further details about your research objectives and population, it is difficult to determine definitively if cluster sampling is the correct method.