Method of
Definition Good for…
sampling
Random selection of a number between one and ten, say
Systematic Massive bits of research
7, then picking the 7th person from the sampling frame
random Helps avoid researcher bias
until the correct number of respondents are included.
Divide the research population into a number of
different sample frames and then randomly select a Massive bits of research
Stratified
number between one and ten, say 7, and then the 7th Helps avoid researcher bias
random
person from the sampling frame until the correct Ensures greater representativeness
number of respondents are included
The researcher decides how many people from each
group within the research population will be included Good for small scale studies to ensure they are
Quota
and then searches for respondents until all places are representative
filled
Making the most of a situation in order to get the
respondents you need. Placing yourself in an
Opportunity Small scale, immersive research (ethnography)
environment where you know people who fit your
criteria will be.
Using an initial respondent in your study to help you Very useful when the topic is sensitive – domestic
Snowball access other people who fit. The more people you violence, addition etc. You only need one respondent
interview, the bigger the web of respondents you have. who then acts as a gate keeper.
Advertising your research and allowing respondents to When you have access to people that meet the criteria;
Volunteer
approach you to be part of the research. good when they’re no time limit.
Deliberately choosing people or cases that fit the nature You are more likely to find the answers you need
Purposive
of the research. Good in small-scale research
Definition Good for…
sampling
Random selection of a number between one and ten, say
Systematic Massive bits of research
7, then picking the 7th person from the sampling frame
random Helps avoid researcher bias
until the correct number of respondents are included.
Divide the research population into a number of
different sample frames and then randomly select a Massive bits of research
Stratified
number between one and ten, say 7, and then the 7th Helps avoid researcher bias
random
person from the sampling frame until the correct Ensures greater representativeness
number of respondents are included
The researcher decides how many people from each
group within the research population will be included Good for small scale studies to ensure they are
Quota
and then searches for respondents until all places are representative
filled
Making the most of a situation in order to get the
respondents you need. Placing yourself in an
Opportunity Small scale, immersive research (ethnography)
environment where you know people who fit your
criteria will be.
Using an initial respondent in your study to help you Very useful when the topic is sensitive – domestic
Snowball access other people who fit. The more people you violence, addition etc. You only need one respondent
interview, the bigger the web of respondents you have. who then acts as a gate keeper.
Advertising your research and allowing respondents to When you have access to people that meet the criteria;
Volunteer
approach you to be part of the research. good when they’re no time limit.
Deliberately choosing people or cases that fit the nature You are more likely to find the answers you need
Purposive
of the research. Good in small-scale research
