Sampling principles with a purpose
The basic concept of purposeful sampling is that data is available, and the researcher must select which population segment can provide it. The researcher selects a segment and collects data from them using any accessible instrument, such as a questionnaire, interviews, or other survey-related instruments. This enables the researcher to locate appropriate sources of information and conduct interviews with the appropriate individuals. It is important, however, that the researcher clarify why a certain sample was chosen.
Criteria
In qualitative research, non-random sampling methods are employed because they provide extensive information on the subject. Quantitative research, on the other hand, has the objective of obtaining information that is more generalizable and hence wide. As a result, purposeful sampling is used increasingly frequently in qualitative research. However, the researcher must be aware that while selecting a sample, a set of criteria must be followed. The practice of picking a sample based on a set of criteria is known as criterion purposeful sampling. This sort of sampling technique might be used in a quantitative study to provide depth.
Consistent
The objective should be to have a sample that adds to the research’s validity, whether employing purposeful sampling in qualitative or quantitative research. It should improve the efficiency and credibility of research. It should also be in line with the aims and objectives of the study. Deliberate sampling can only be useful to research in this way.
Benefits of Purposeful Sampling
The major benefit of this sampling method is that it enables for the collecting of large amounts of information on a limited budget.
It is easier to obtain detailed information since the researcher selects the appropriate audience.
The researcher cannot use systematic random sampling due to a financial constraint; nevertheless, if done appropriately, this sampling technique can be used in place of systematic sampling.
Drawbacks
There is a danger of bias because it is non-random sampling and the researcher selects the sample based on his preferences. In order to reduce or remove bias in sample selection, the researcher must understand how to do it.
A non-random selection is also less trustworthy and reproducible than one that is made at random. In the study, the researcher can establish the need for this method.
Some respondents could be hesitant or uninterested in giving their responses. This is an issue that the researcher has to be aware of. Read this definition of purposeful sampling by Patton (2002, p. 230), who has done a good job of describing this method.
Taking a different approach to sampling
Variation sampling, as the name indicates, includes looking into a larger variety of samples that does not exclude any social group. It provides a wide range of data, but it is time consuming and can be costly. First, the researcher determines the population’s size and kind of variation. Then he selects samples that demonstrate that variance. It is important, however, for the researcher to be able to discover population variation.
EDITOR'S SOURCE: Research Materials For Students
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