Qualitative Data Collection
At the heart of your research is the data or information that you need to answer your research questions and achieve your research goals. You may require direct interaction with people, tangible experiences, or indirect information found in a museum. Each type of data collected has unique procedures in which we can provide expert advice.
Sampling
What is it? Sampling is the process of selecting people from a population or data from larger sources of data for a research project. The type of research design and the research questions can inform the sample size and who should participate in a study. Sampling goes hand-in-hand with recruitment. Sampling decisions should be made first, then recruitment can be implemented.
Sampling techniques are divided into clusters of probability and non-probability. Probability sampling is popularly used in mixed methods and in quantitative research projects; however, there are some projects that apply this approach in generic qualitative research designs. It is considered random selection or ensuring that people in a population or a type of data have an equal chance of being chosen. Non-probability sampling is where participants are selected because they meet specific criteria, and is popular in qualitative research because the research goals are usually to gain in-depth understanding of a culture, small group, or a single case. There are various types of non-probability sampling, including: convenience, purposive, and snowball sampling.
When you map out all the logistics involved in your project, you may recognize that your sampling method may need further examination. In another instance, you may need to make changes to sampling when you begin collecting data. Our consultants can assist you in selecting the most suitable sampling method(s) for your qualitative project.
How can we help you?
- Help you consider different types of sampling options for your project
- Clearly articulate the rationale for the type of sampling used
Related Services
Publications: Articles, Books, Op-ed
For academic journals, qualitative data insights may need more information than if you are writing a newspaper or practice-based journal article.
Learn MoreContent Analysis
Cultural context is the broad range of beliefs and practices that guide the behavior of research participants and researchers.
Learn MoreQualitative Surveys
In qualitative research, a survey is a set of open-ended questions used to explore diverse views primarily among a large number of people.
Learn MoreCultural Context
Cultural context is the broad range of beliefs and practices that guide the behavior of research participants and researchers.
Learn MoreArticles and White Papers About Sampling
What Are Some Data Collection Challenges and How Do You Overcome Them? (Part 3 of 3)
Articles and White Papers About Considerations How do You Develop an Evaluation Plan? Read More How Do You Get Started With Your Program Evaluation? Read More What Do You Need to Consider About Program Evaluation? Read More How Does Your Organization Build Its Credibility? Read More Load More
Read MoreFAQ About Sampling
Each arts-based or arts-informed research is unique due to the nature of qualitative research as a method of inquiry on topics that have little to no research. A researcher may choose to focus on oneself or one participant or have over 25 participants. Some research in Qual Research Design: Arts-Based/Arts-Informed have no participants.
The number of participants for grounded theory varies. It is suggested to have no less than 20 participants. However, data saturation is more important than the number of participants.
Narrative research consists of several in-depth interviews and other types of data to chronologically arrange participants’ story or life events. The availability of data and participants will inform the length of the study. Some narrative projects take 3 or more months.
Each phenomenological study differs. The length of time depends on amount and type of data collection, analysis, and other unexpected issues that may emerge in the field. It is unlikely to complete a phenomenological research under 3 month unless there is more than one researcher.
A case study examines a subject using multiple types of data. The accessiblity of information from a participant, timeframe, and the use of secondary data will inform the length of time. There is no general length of time. The most important aspect is to ensure that the research questions inform the rationale for a case study and if time is part of the boundary for collecting data on a case.
What Our Clients Say About Us
Peggy Ostrander, DNPc, APRN, FNP-C Plano, Texas