Among the non-probability sampling methods, which one is the MOST susceptible to bias?
Convenience sampling involves selecting sample items based solely on their ease of access or availability, without any structured approach to ensure the sample reflects the characteristics of the overall population. Unlike judgment sampling, which relies on the deliberate application of expert knowledge to select representative or relevant items, or quota sampling, which imposes proportional representation requirements based on known population characteristics, convenience sampling has no built-in safeguard against selection bias. Because the selection is driven purely by convenience rather than any analytical or proportional criteria, it carries the highest risk of producing a sample that is unrepresentative and biased.
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