Review the terms Stratified Sampling, Cluster Sampling, Random Sampling, and Systematic Sampling from "The Visual Learner: Statistics," located in the Topic 2 Resources.

For this question, you are divided into groups based on your last name. Identify your given sampling method using the first letter of your last name, according to the following: 

• A-F - Stratified Sampling
• G-L - Cluster Sampling
• M-R - Random Sampling
• S-Z - Systematic Sampling

Use the assigned sampling method to answer the following question:

You are tasked with studying vaccination rates across a large metropolitan area.

1. Choose one sampling method (Stratified, Cluster, Random, or Systematic) based on your group assignment described above and explain how you would use it to gather data.
2. Discuss why this method would be appropriate for your study and how it ensures reliable and valid results. 

Initial discussion question posts should be a minimum of 200 words and cite at least two references using APA style. 

Example:

My last name starts with A, so I was assigned the Stratified Sampling process:

To study vaccination rates across a large metropolitan area, I would use Stratified Sampling to ensure my sample accurately represents the diverse populations within the city. Since vaccination rates can vary based on demographic factors such as age, income level, or geographic region, I would first divide the city’s population into strata based on these characteristics. For example: 

• Age groups: Children (0-18), adults (19-64), and seniors (65+). 
• Income levels: Low-income, middle-income, and high-income households. 
• Geographic regions: Neighborhoods or zip codes. 

Within each stratum, I would then randomly select participants proportional to the size of the group within the total population. For instance, if 30% of the city’s population is aged 0-18, 30% of my sample would come from that age group. 

Why Stratified Sampling Is Appropriate:

This method ensures that all relevant subgroups are represented in the sample, which is crucial for studying vaccination rates that may differ across demographics. Stratified sampling reduces sampling bias by accounting for population diversity and increases the precision of my estimates for each subgroup. By comparing rates across strata, I can identify disparities in vaccination coverage (e.g., lower rates among low-income households) and recommend targeted interventions. 

Ensuring Reliability and Validity:

To ensure reliable results, I would use random sampling within each stratum to minimize selection bias. I would also ensure my sample size is large enough for statistical analysis, allowing me to detect significant differences between strata. Validity would be supported by carefully defining strata (e.g., using census data for accurate demographic breakdowns) and by using consistent data collection methods, such as surveys or electronic health records.