Qualitative research case study sample sizes. The sample size estimation and the point of data .
Qualitative research case study sample sizes Jul 21, 2021 · An appropriate sample size for a phenomenological qualitative approach typically ranges from 5 to 25 participants. Jan 1, 2022 · These results provide strong empirical guidance on effective sample sizes for qualitative research, which can be used in conjunction with the characteristics of individual studies to estimate an appropriate sample size prior to data collection. Qualitative research is a bit of a puzzle for new practitioners: since it is done via interviewing participants, observation, or studying people’s Qualitative research with 15 people is a good investment because it yields the most findings at a lower cost. Mar 22, 2022 · An important step when designing an empirical study is to justify the sample size that will be collected. D) Generalizability is a major quality criterion in both types of research. Sep 12, 2016 · Sample size in qualitative research is always mentioned by reviewers of qualitative papers but discussion tends to be simplistic and relatively uninformed. Nevertheless Data saturation is crucial for determining sample size adequacy in qualitative case studies. Example 1: sample size for case-control studies (qualitative variables) • Suppose a researcher wants to know the relation between female genital mutilation in childhood and psychiatric disorders in adulthood. Phenomenology: 5-25 participants Grounded Theory: 20-60 participants Case Study: 1-10 cases (depending on the complexity of each case and the number of interviews/data sources per case). When you conduct research about a group of people, it’s rarely possible to collect data from every person in that group. This range allows for in-depth exploration of participants' experiences while case studies. Although studies have assessed when saturation has been achieved, there is no agreement on the minimum number of interviews needed to Additionally, it offers recommendations for researchers on determining sample sizes and 16-ietms checklist for achieving saturation, aiming to improve research quality while addressing the methodological challenges inherent in qualitative research. The five qualitative designs discussed include case study, narrative inquiry, ethnography, phenomenology, and grounded theory. This article explores the. Oct 3, 2021 · The consensus of many researchers on data saturation is that data saturation is a key driver for determining the adequacy of sample size in a qualitative case study. Study with Quizlet and memorize flashcards containing terms like 40. Purpose: Qualitative researchers have been criticised for not justifying sample size decisions in their research. In this guide, we Choosing a suitable sample size in qualitative research is an area of conceptual debate and practical uncertainty. Sampling in qualitative research is the process of selecting a subset of individuals, cases, or data points from a larger population or dataset to study in-depth. This article explores the Apr 8, 2025 · Interested in ideas around preferable qualitative methodological processes and analyses of a small sample of counsellor perspectives within a mixed methodology study (quant/qual) - thanks. In qualitative research, as in quantitative one, the sample size depends on the size and type of population you are measuring. I follow this description with methods considerations, including case study design, research questions, sample size, data collection, and ata analysis. Determining the right sample size for qualitative research can feel like navigating a maze. Data saturation is relative and varies across qualitative research designs; quality of data matters more than quantity. Through this Case Study, readers will gain insights into strategies to apply in navigating the challenges that may arise in determining sample sizes in qualitative research. This paper reviews the principles of nonprobability sampling, summarizes key qualitative sampling characteristics to consider, and provides a set of examples for negotiating sample sizes in the era of Big Data. Understanding the concept of saturation is essential to conducting rigorous qualitative research that contributes to evidence-based practice. So … is there a magical number to aim for in qualitative research? So now we’re back to our original question: In qualitative research, as in quantitative one, the sample size depends on the size and type of population you are measuring. No universal guidelines exist for estimating sample size related to data saturation. To draw valid conclusions from Sep 11, 2023 · In this post we discuss the difference in sample sizes required for quantitative and qualitative market research. , 38. The sample size for a study needs to be estimated at the time the study is proposed; too large a sample is unnecessary and unethical, and too small a sample is unscientific and also unethical. Introduction Sample size determination in qualitative research is a topic of concern (Marshall, 1996). The sample is the group of individuals who will actually participate in the research. The key is having the right participant segmentation and study design. All these factors need to be taken into account while calculating the sample size. Building on established reviews and expanding to new methods, our findings extract the following sample size guidelines: theme Aug 21, 2018 · Article Summary: Sample sizes in qualitative research are much lower than those needed in quantitative research because of careful audience segmentation, study design, and the principle of data saturation. The chapter discusses different types of sampling methods used in qualitative research to select information-rich cases. Yet, simple sizes may be too small to support claims of For those of you who perform in depth interviews as part of a qualitative or mixed-methods study. Various strategies, including triangulation and Mar 25, 2025 · Qualitative research has been flourishing in business and management research over the past decades. Discussion will also involve challenges anticipated for each procedure. Extending previous literature in this area, we identify four distinct approaches to determining Aug 13, 2024 · Methodology: Different qualitative methods (e. The purpose of this integrated review is to examine this literature for 10 types of qualitative data analysis (5 types of saturation and 5 common methods). 5-7 is possible for post graduation courses. Based on the existing studies, we reported their Jan 8, 2025 · A guide to determining sample size for saturation in qualitative research (interviews, UX testing, etc) with a sample size formula backed by 75+ expert sources. Nov 8, 2024 · The literature on sample size also suggests that successful sampling in qualitative research should be based on both methodological requirements and practical constraints. Analytic studies are different in that they usually involve hypothesis testing. g. Guidelines for choosing the size of a sample indicate that such factors as having an exploratory research objective, the minimization of the burden on study participants, homogeneous population, scattered population, and limited resources suggest a smaller sample size rather than a larger sample size. Although there are several different purposeful sampling strategies, criterion sampling Oct 17, 2023 · Examples of qualitative research include conducting in-depth interviews to explore patients’ experiences with healthcare, utilizing focus groups to understand consumer perceptions of a product, engaging in ethnographic observation to study cultural practices, and employing case studies to investigate real-life phenomena in detail. Background and Aim Qualitative research plays an important role in improving nursing knowledge. You'll find that case studies can range from single cases to multiple cases, depending on your research objectives and available resources. B) Both involve the use of random samples whenever possible. Background Qualitative researchers need tools to evaluate sample size first while planning a study, then during the research pro-cess to appraise sample size continuously, and finally to ascertain Jun 25, 2021 · In consideration of the many real-world factors that often influence qualitative studies, this article contributes a strategic and holistic approach to a priori and ongoing mapping of sample size determination in qualitative research via an analytical tool termed DEJA. For this subject, the How many people do you need for saturation in qualitative research? Use our sample size calculator and see how the formula works for interviews, diary studies, etc. I consider the key arguments for sample size in the three sampling strategies of theoretical sampling, purposeful sampling, and theoretical or purposive sampling considered in the first part of the book. This paper provides a framework for developing sampling designs in mixed methods research. Our study reviews previous research on purposeful Furthermore, we recommend that qualitative researchers always verify the quality of data saturation by conducting additional interviews and be more open in reporting their selected methodologies. Generic Qualitative Inquiry: Varies based on the research question, often 15-30 participants. This literature review discusses three areas related to qualitative sample size: summary of sampling recommendations, literature related to sample size, and existing studies of qualitative sample sizes. What is important to most qualitative case study researchers are the choice of sample size that has the best opportunity for the researcher to reach data saturation whether large samples or not. e. The sample size estimation and the point of data For quantitative projects the adequacy of the sample size must be determined before the study begins and the “size remains a constant target through the study. An important stage in planning a study is determining how large a sample size Aug 18, 2025 · Within this framework, the study aims to clarify ongoing debates regarding the validity, reliability, sampling methods, and sample size in qualitative research, thereby offering a structured Purposeful sampling is widely used in qualitative research for the identification and selection of information-rich cases related to the phenomenon of interest. There are no specific rules when determining an appropriate sample size in qualitative research. The debate revolves around acceptable sample size and how representative the selected Nov 29, 2023 · Each has its own strengths and weaknesses, which we can summarize as: Quantitative research can achieve generalizability through scrupulous statistical analysis applied to large sample sizes. Nov 1, 2021 · Objective To review empirical studies that assess saturation in qualitative research in order to identify sample sizes for saturation, strategies used to assess saturation, and guidance we can Feb 2, 2025 · Unlike IPA's strict adherence to small samples, case study research offers more flexibility in sample size determination. Jul 2, 2025 · Determining an appropriate sample size for a qualitative study is a multifaceted process. The purpose of this study is to clarify the concept of saturation in qualitative research. However, there are several important questions to consider that can help guide your decision-making. What is the magical number of participants you should have in a qualitative research study, where you're looking for themes and not statistical validation? Explore qualitative research sampling methods & sample size considerations. So … is there a magical number to aim for in qualitative research? So now we’re back to our original question: Note that the sample sizes given are not prescriptive; they provide a guide or recommendation as to the likely number of participants required; for example, to inform applications for grants and ethics approval. This narrative study highlights the dilemma of data saturation and strategies to adequately determine sample size in a qualitative case study. Jun 11, 2025 · This Case Study covers the key dilemmas that qualitative researchers contend with in determining appropriate sample sizes in their studies. ABSTRACT This report presents guidelines for conducting qualitative case studies. An example is a medium -size university. A common question in qualitative research involves the sample size. Abstract: In this article, we attempt a synthesis of sampling in the field of qualitative study and that of quantitative study, based on the various research contributions and the work of the authors, this synthesis attempts to bring order by distinguishing, the size of the sample as objects of research both in the qualitative approach and in the quantitative approach. The purpose of this integrated review is to examine this literature for 10 types of Case study research is an in depth investigation hence the sample size to be selected should consider the duration of the research. What are the appropriate sample sizes in the following qualitative research designs: Action Research, Appreciative Inquiry, Case Study, Delphi, Ethnography, Grounded Theory, Narrative Inquiry, Needs Assessment, Phenomenology, and Program Assessment? Jun 1, 2023 · Matching There appears to be a common opinion in the social sciences that analyzing small samples requires the use of interpretative, qualitative or hermeneutic methods. Qualitative research typically requires spending long periods in the setting under study. Revised on June 22, 2023. The approach offers a uniquely When choosing your sample size for a qualitative research study, consider these three factors: the diversity of your target group, your research scope, and the researcher’s skill level. Unlike quantitative studies that often rely on large numbers for statistical significance, qualitative research thrives on depth and richness of data. Data saturation should focus on quality rather than Keywords: sampling, sample size, qualitative research Abstract: There has been considerable recent interest in methods of determining sample size for qualitative research a priori, rather than through an adaptive approach such as saturation. That means you shouldn’t worry too much if you can’t use fancy maths to choose your sample size – you’re in good company. Nov 10, 2024 · Sample size for saturation in qualitative research: debates, definitions, and strategies Sirwan Khalid Ahmed 1 College of Nursing, University of Raparin, Rania, Sulaymaniyah, Kurdistan Region, 46012, There has been a recent explosion of articles on minimum sample sizes needed for analyzing qualitative data. Qualitative research involves the collection and analysis of non-numerical data to understand social phenomena, human behavior, and experiences. The prevailing concept for sample size in qualitative studies is "saturation. So, what are the goals of purposive sampling in qualitative inquiry? Patton (2002) says, “The logic and power of purposeful sampling lies in selecting information-rich cases for study in depth Oct 25, 2024 · There has been a recent explosion of articles on minimum sample sizes needed for analyzing qualitative data. Most studies previously using this approach have been performed in the education field and with the purpose of overcoming sample size limitations in qualitative research. The necessary sample size can be calculated, using In most qualitative studies, the goals of the research emphasize an in-depth and highly contexualized understanding of specific phenomena, and such goals are well-suited to small sample sizes. The chapter illustrates these two types of sampling techniques relevant examples. In doing so, we generate a taxonomy, conceptual framework, and research agenda for understanding minimum sample size that includes and goes beyond the literature on saturation. Yin’s case study process is elaborated on and additional principles from the wider literature are integrated. It necessitates a careful consideration of the research question, data collection methods, data analysis techniques, and available resources. This paper aims to highlight the centrality of sample size estimations in health research. Sep 19, 2019 · Sampling Methods | Types, Techniques & Examples Published on September 19, 2019 by Shona McCombes. The current paper draws attention to how sample sizes, at both ends of the size continuum, can be justified by researchers. " So even though it’s theoretically possible to calculate a sample size using a formula, in many cases experts still end up relying rules of thumb plus a good deal of common sense and pragmatism. Aug 18, 2021 · Participants in these studies, though each has unique lived experiences, share having lived the phenomenon under study. Recommended sample sizes Jan 6, 2016 · The goal, therefore, is to have a large enough sample size in a qualitative study that we’re able to uncover a range of opinions, but to cut the sample size off at the number where we’re getting saturation and repetitive data. Sample sizes in these approaches, however, are not standardized and confusion persists with respect to understanding appropriate sample sizes in phenomenology and qualitative research. The debate revolves around acceptable sample size and how representative the selected Qualitative research gains acceptance, yet sample size adequacy remains contentious among researchers. It is expected that following the guidelines presented will facilitate the collection of the most relevant data in the most efficient and effective manner, simplify the subsequent analysis and enhance Jul 21, 2024 · sample size for all qualitative research design are collect the samples until the data saturation achieved approximately 30 - 40. Data saturation should focus on quality rather than Oct 25, 2024 · We then discuss qualitative data analysis methods for which sample size estimation is rarely discussed and poorly understood. Nov 21, 2018 · Background Choosing a suitable sample size in qualitative research is an area of conceptual debate and practical uncertainty. This free sample size calculator determines the sample size required to meet a given set of constraints. Hence, highly substantial to qualitative research is how to achieve purposeful case selection and saturation of cases and informants. Mar 27, 2018 · We conclude that, whilst meeting certain practical demands, determining qualitative sample size a priori is an inherently problematic approach, especially in more interpretive models of qualitative research. That sample size principles, guidelines and tools have been developed to enable researchers to set, and justify the acceptability of, Sep 18, 2022 · Specific to number 20-60 is the most frequently observed range of sample size in qualitative research which of course is determined by the aforementioned factors. Jan 8, 2022 · The minimum sample size for qualitative study can be 10 too – but it absolutely depends on how the recruited samples matched with underlying criteria. In this overview article six approaches are discussed to justify the sample size in a quantitative Sep 18, 2022 · Specific to number 20-60 is the most frequently observed range of sample size in qualitative research which of course is determined by the aforementioned factors. Learn about purposeful sampling, common strategies, and more. Design/methodology/approach: The sparse literature on sample sizes in qualitative research is reviewed and discussed. Data saturation's definition remains vague, complicating its application in research. May 5, 2020 · This body of work has advanced the evidence base for sample size estimation in qualitative inquiry during the design phase of a study, prior to data collection, but it does not provide qualitative researchers with a simple and reliable way to determine the adequacy of sample sizes during and/or after data collection. or selecting qualitative research approaches, sample strategy, sample size, data collection methods (i. Researchers report sample sizes ranging from 12 to 35 may achieve data saturation. Sample sizes vary significantly; for grounded theory, 20-30 interviews are frequently recommended for saturation. Specifically, the paper will discuss the sampling frame suitable for case study, such as single-case (holistic and embedded), multi-case, and a snowball or network sampling procedure. Sep 1, 2013 · Recommendations are provided for minimally acceptable practices of justifying sample size of interviews in qualitative IS studies. Researchers typically need to decide on sample size a priori. Qualitative sample size may best be determined by the time allotted, resources available, and study objectives (Patton, 1990). Sep 12, 2012 · The sample size used in qualitative research methods is often smaller than that used in quantitative research methods. Note that there are many approaches and styles to case s Which statement is true regarding both quantitative and qualitative research? A) Both involve the development of eligibility criteria before recruiting study participants. Also, learn more about population standard deviation. I also deal with the practical problem of sample size in qualitative research, which is given little attention in many methodological accounts. Oct 25, 2024 · There has been a recent explosion of articles on minimum sample sizes needed for analyzing qualitative data. Nov 27, 2015 · Sample sizes must be ascertained in qualitative studies like in quantitative studies but not by the same means. The paper presents four methods for estimating sample size in qualitative studies and simplifies the statistical approach for saturation calculation in qualitative studies. Data saturation is also a key principle to understand. Data Saturation in a Phenomenological Study Note. In this case, whether conducting medical research or exploring social phenomena, researchers are required to align their sample size for a qualitative study with the appropriate methodology to ensure that they attain Nov 20, 2024 · The article covers the qualitative case study methodology, examining its dimensions, approaches, and practical applications. , interviews, focus groups, case studies) may have different typical sample sizes. ” (Guetterman, 2015). Running qualitative research studies with more than 15 people provides little additional benefit (you will hit saturation at around 15 people and identify 99% of insights) but costs quite a bit. Qualitative sampling techniques ensure that the selected sample is representative of the Dec 1, 2024 · Abstract An appropriate sampling technique with the exact determination of sample size involves a very vigorous selection process, which is actually vital for any empirical research. interview methods), saturation, and data analysis. case studies. Determine qualitative sample sizes based on research design, goals, and participant characteristics, not just saturation. Qualitative research gains acceptance, yet sample size adequacy remains contentious among researchers. Despite these global consensuses, some researchers described data saturation as complex because the decision to stop data collection is solely dictated by the judgment and experience of researchers. How many interviews are considered as enough in your field (and by international peer reviewed The design of the study, the primary outcome, sampling method used, dropout rate, effect size, power, level of significance, and standard deviation are some of the multiple factors which affect the sample size. Qualitative research achieves deep, detailed, and nuance accounts of specific case studies, which are not generalizable. This short paper addresses the issue of which sample sizes are appropriate and valid within different approaches to qualitative research. Ethnography: Data collection over an extended period, so sample size evolves with the research. The insights gathered from rich qualitative data fundamentally depend on the analyzed subjects and case(s). None of these assumptions or strategies hold true for qualitative inquiry. For this subject, the Abstract: In this article, we attempt a synthesis of sampling in the field of qualitative study and that of quantitative study, based on the various research contributions and the work of the authors, this synthesis attempts to bring order by distinguishing, the size of the sample as objects of research both in the qualitative approach and in the quantitative approach. In-depth interviews, focus groups, and ethnographic research are the most common methods used in qualitative market research, and the types of questions being studied have an equally important factor as the sample size chosen for these various methods. Note that there are many approaches and styles to case s Purpose: Qualitative researchers have been criticised for not justifying sample size decisions in their research. Results: The multiple case narrative approach addresses limitations of collective case study, case survey and meta-ethnography by employing greater sample sizes and more generalisable results. Examples that help in understanding the basic concepts Mar 21, 2023 · Article Summary: Sample sizes in qualitative research can be much lower than sample sizes in quantitative research. Dec 1, 2021 · Our article explains the five key qualitative designs (case study, narrative inquiry, ethnography, phenomenology, and grounded theory). I follow this description with methods considerations, including case study design, research questions, sample size, data collection, and This paper will examine the available methods in sampling participants for qualitative study. It is obvious that these methodological decisions would greatly affect the internal and external validity and the overall generalizability of the study findings. Dec 10, 2015 · Abstract This study examines 83 IS qualitative studies in leading IS journals for the following purposes: (a) identifying the extent to which IS qualitative studies employ best practices of justifying sample size; (b) identifying optimal ranges of interviews for various types of qualitative research; and (c) identifying the extent to which cultural factors (such as journal of publication Feb 10, 2015 · Thematic analysis is frequently used to analyse qualitative data in psychology, healthcare, social research and beyond. Other case studies. C) Both rely on power analysis to estimate sample size needs. Yet, it is vital to responsibly integrate these methods, acknowledging their limitations and maintaining the importance of sample size estimation in qualitative studies. For example, in-depth interviews might involve fewer participants Oct 25, 2024 · We then discuss qualitative data analysis methods for which sample size estimation is rarely discussed and poorly understood. The key aim of a sample size justification for such studies is to explain how the collected data is expected to provide valuable information given the inferential goals of the researcher. This examination is Accordingly, a number of writers have addressed means of determining sample size for qualitative research a priori – particularly in relation to interview or focus group studies. Instead, you select a sample. Abstract Objective: To review empirical studies that assess saturation in qualitative research in order to identify sample sizes for saturation, strategies used to assess saturation, and guidance we can draw from these studies. Two types of sampling techniques are discussed in the past qualitative studies—the theoretical and the purposeful sampling techniques. The idea here is description and explanation of the case instead of trying to get a random sample of cases. Many sources are available for calculating sample size. And for phenomenological studies, Creswell (1998) recommends five to 25 and Morse (1994) suggests at least six. and more. In this Jan 8, 2025 · A guide to determining sample size for saturation in qualitative research (interviews, UX testing, etc) with a sample size formula backed by 75+ expert sources. Aug 22, 2016 · Figuring out sample size for interviews can sometimes feel trickier than for quantitative methods, like questionnaires because there aren’t tools like sample size calculators to use. That sample size principles, guidelines and tools have been developed to enable researchers to set, and justify the acceptability of, their sample size is an indication that the issue constitutes an important marker of the quality of qualitative research. A common misconception about sampling in qualitative research is that numbers are unimportant in ensuring the adequacy of a sampling strategy. Yet, simple sizes may be too small to support claims of having achieved either informational redundancy or theoretical saturation, or too large to permit the … May 3, 2019 · By Julia Schaefer How many participants should you have in a qualitative research study? This blog explains the optimal number. Second, we discuss sample size considerations and provide sample size recommendations for each of the major research designs for quantitative and qualitative approaches. First, we present sampling schemes that have been associated with quantitative and qualitative research. Keywords: research methods; case studies; qualitative research; interviews; saturation; data run off h, saturation appears to be the criterion by which sample size are determi when the collection method is collecting no new perspectives and insights. Five qualitative designs analyzed include case study, narrative inquiry, ethnography, phenomenology, and grounded theory. The question of saturation is always at the forefront. The importance of estimating sample sizes is rarely understood by researchers, when planning a study. There has been a recent explosion of articles on minimum sample sizes needed for analyzing qualitative data. Many assume that case study research, for example, means that data sampling and analysis will proceed in a qualitative manner. Note that there are many approaches and styles to case s Apr 1, 2025 · Additionally, it offers recommendations for researchers on determining sample sizes and 16-ietms checklist for achieving saturation, aiming to improve research quality while addressing the methodological challenges inherent in qualitative research. The findings have been discussed on three themes: determining the sample size in qualitative research; small samples in qualitative research, and optimal sample size in qualitative research. It is not unusual for participants, settings, and research questions to be added during the course of a qualitative study. 1. Third, we provide a sampling Jan 1, 2022 · This study also provides brief justification on selecting specific qualitative research approaches, sampling strategies, sample size, interviews, and data analysis methods. Keywords: case study, ethnography, grounded theory, narrative inquiry, phenomenology, qualitative studies, sample size, sampling. The final column indicates the appropriate qualitative research design, based on all of these prior considerations. When you're conducting a single case study, you'll focus intensively on one unique or representative case to gather deep, rich And for phenomenological studies, Creswell (1998) recommends five to 25 and Morse (1994) suggests at least six. Nov 16, 2025 · Sample sizes for case series or qualitative research are usually based on the need to obtain saturation, that is further interviews would provide no additional new information. Other researchers claimed that In-depth interviews are a common method of qualitative data collection, providing rich data on individuals’ perceptions and behaviors that would be challenging to collect with quantitative methods. In fact, Emmel (2013) argues you have to invert the rules as a qualitative researcher. The question is really irrelevant in the discussion of qualitative case study. The consensus of many researchers on data saturation is that data saturation is a key driver for determining the adequacy of sample size in a qualitative case study. Which of the following is not a characteristic of qualitative research?, 39. yxrsir ussvh flfryjf axbci vpsptu mkgv tyifq qmiyu ivysnl uojcg qunxckc dixrrf egwomy qna baklm