SAMPLE SIZE DETERMINATION FOR NON-FINITE POPULATION

Abstract

This paper reviews the conventional approach to sample size calculation with finite and non-finite population. Two alternative sample size determination methods are provided. The need and necessity of a test sample as a requisite to minimum sample size determination is explained. Standard error, margin of error and sampling errors are differentiated. This paper presents two new methods of determining minimum sample size: (i) n-hat method and (ii) multistage nonfinite population method. Under both methods, the minimum sample size is n ≈ 30. The range under MNP method is 30-40 counts. The claim under Weisberg and Bowen that the minimum sample size for 0.05 error level n = 400 is wrong. The standard error equation has been wrongly applied as the sampling error and it is erroneously used as a tool for minimum sample size determination.