Sampling for qualitative research

Three broad categories of naturalistic sampling are described: convenience, judgement and theoretical models, which are illustrated with practical examples from the author's own research.

Abstract

The probability sampling techniques used for quantitative studies are rarely appropriate when conducting qualitative research. This article considers and explains the differences between the two approaches and describes three broad categories of naturalistic sampling: convenience, judgement and theoretical models. The principles are illustrated with practical examples from the author's own research.