Theoretical Sampling Overview and Process

Questions and Answers

What is theoretical sampling?

Theoretical sampling is specific to grounded theory and is a method of data collection based on the context derived from the data.

How do you sample theoretically?

Data is collected from places, persons, and situations that will provide information about the concept in further detail.

What are the advantages of theoretical sampling?

It is concept-driven, allows exploration of concepts from different angles, and enables the discovery of concepts relevant to the problem.

What are the steps of theoretical sampling?

Data collection, analyze questions, data collection, analyze questions. Signup and view all the answers

How do you know when you have enough samples?

Researchers look for opportunities or situations that will maximize similarities and differences within and between concepts. Signup and view all the answers

When does theoretical sampling begin?

Theoretical sampling begins after the first analytical session and continues throughout the research process. Signup and view all the answers

How much sampling must be done?

Researchers continue to gather data until reaching the level of saturation. Signup and view all the answers

What is the summary of theoretical sampling?

The researcher lets concepts derived during analysis guide the data collection process until all categories are saturated. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Theoretical Sampling Overview

Theoretical sampling is integral to grounded theory, focusing on data collection guided by emerging contexts within the data.
It resembles a detective's work, utilizing one clue (context) to uncover further hints (data).

Sampling Process

Data is collected from diverse sources, including people and situations, to deepen understanding of concepts.
The sampling process involves iterative data collection intertwined with analysis, refining questions based on findings.

Advantages of Theoretical Sampling

Concept-driven approach fosters exploration of theories from multiple perspectives.
Promotes discovery of relevant concepts tied to specific problems, enhancing the richness of research insights.

Sampling Steps

The cycle of data collection, analyzing questions, and subsequent data collection is continuous and dynamic.

Determining Sample Sufficiency

Researchers assess the similarity and diversity of concepts to decide when enough samples have been gathered, seeking maximal insights.

Initiation of Theoretical Sampling

Theoretical sampling commences after the initial analytical session and is maintained throughout the research process.

Sampling Extent and Saturation

Sampling continues until reaching a satisfactory level of saturation, where no new insights emerge.
Although extending sampling indefinitely is possible, researchers must recognize the limitations of what remains uncovered.

Summary of Theoretical Sampling

Research is guided by concepts identified during analysis, evolving the data collection process.
This method improves the opportunity to uncover new properties and nuances of concepts, continuing until categories are sufficiently saturated.
As sensitivity to data grows, the researcher develops a more refined understanding throughout the research journey.

Description

This quiz explores the concept of theoretical sampling as a crucial component of grounded theory. It delves into the sampling process, its advantages, and the iterative nature of data collection and analysis. Enhance your understanding of how researchers determine sample sufficiency and the impact on research insights.