Final answer:
To obtain a representative sample, researchers should utilize random sampling, which provides each individual an equal chance of being selected, avoiding the bias that often accompanies convenience sampling.
Step-by-step explanation:
Researchers can maximize the likelihood of a representative sample by using random sampling. Random sampling involves selecting participants so that every individual in a population has an equal chance of being included. This method is opposed to convenience sampling, which selects individuals who are easily accessible, potentially leading to biased data. Random sampling includes techniques such as simple random sampling, stratified sampling, cluster sampling, and systematic sampling, whereas convenience sampling does not involve a random selection process and is therefore less likely to produce a representative sample.