HSOC 408 Chapter Notes - Chapter 18: Nonprobability Sampling
18 Nov 2016
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Document Summary
When conducting qualitative research, researchers often have to choose samples of multiple levels before collecting their data. Sampling of multiple levels is a common occurrence in qualitative research. Purposive sampling is sampling that is conducted with the research questions in mind. The sampled units of analysis are chosen based on criteria that will allow the research questions to be answered. This is the opposite of random sampling because we are sampling cases in a strategic way. Since purposive sampling is non-random, we cannot generalize study results to the general population. Sequential sampling is an evolving process where the researcher may add additional cases to the sample as the research and research questions evolve. In non-sequential sampling, the initial sample is more or less fixed throughout the study. An ongoing process of data collection wherein the researcher collects/analyzes data and then afterwards decides what data to collect next in order to develop his theory as it emerges.
