Sampling Strategy and Sample Size for a Qualitative Research Plan

Sampling Strategy and Sample Size for a Qualitative Research Plan

Sampling strategy and sample size is distinctly influenced by the research approach taken. This applies both to the overall research direction appropriate for a proposed study (quantitative, qualitative, and mixed methods) as well as to the technique applied to explore the phenomenon under investigation. Moreover, even though Ms. Lynn noted that quantitative and qualitative research methods exist on a continuum, where different methods reflect the amount of data and information available, literature and practice demonstrate significant differences in research strategy and sampling (Laureate Education, n.d.).

The following assignment will discuss the sampling strategy and sample size for the proposed research study. It will briefly evaluate strategies that may aid in the exploration of the issue. Furthermore, it will recommend and justify a sampling strategy and sample size. Finally, it will highlight the reasoning underlying the choice and associated benefits.

Sampling Strategies

There are significant differences in sampling strategies, requirements, and sample size between qualitative and quantitative research approaches. While quantitative research seeks generalizability, qualitative methods focus on depth, specificity of experiences, and content. As a result, quantitative research emphasizes the importance of random sampling, avoidance of bias, and sufficiently large samples, whereas qualitative approaches stress purposeful sampling and relatively small numbers (Creswell, 2013; Patton, 2002). This further holds that “what would be ‘bias’ in statistical sampling, and therefore weakness, becomes intended focus in qualitative sampling and therefore a strength” (Pat...

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...eity” (Patton, 2002, p. 235). The sample size will aim to balance elements of quality and quantity. Ten participants are expected to provide sufficient variety, while permitting for in-depth, detailed descriptions.

References:

Creswell, J. (2009). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approach (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks; CA: SAGE.

Creswell, J. (2013). Qualitative inquiry and research design: Choosing between five approaches (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: SAGE.

Laureate Education (n.d.). Doctoral Research: Preparing for Qualitative Research [DVD]. Baltimore, MD: Author.

Patton, M. Q. (2002). Qualitative research and evaluation methods (3rd ed.). Thousand Oaks, CA: Sage.

Chan, Z.C.Y., Fung, Y., & Chien, W. (2013). Bracketing in Phenomenology: Only undertaken in the data collection and analysis process? The Qualitative Report, 18, p. 1-9.