Which advantage does an opportunity sample provide?

An opportunity sample is advantageous primarily because it is quick and easy to gather participants. This sampling method involves selecting individuals who are readily available and willing to participate, which can significantly speed up the recruitment process. Researchers often choose this approach when they need to collect data quickly or when time constraints do not allow for more rigorous sampling methods. The convenience of accessing participants who are already in the vicinity or part of a relevant group makes opportunity sampling a practical choice, especially in exploratory research or preliminary studies where extensive resources may not be justified.

Other methods, like random sampling, typically require more time and effort to ensure that every member of a population has an equal chance of being selected, which can be logistically challenging. While opportunity sampling may lead to less diverse samples or introduce potential biases, its primary appeal lies in the efficiency and ease of participant recruitment.