Categories
Design

Sampling Decision Flowchart

Sampling refers to who (or what) is going to be included in your analysis. We may have an fascinating research question and innovative design but none of that matters without a sample of cases (e.g. the people, institutions, content, etc.) to analyze. I made a little flow chart for my methods class today to help decide what kind of sample one might choose in what contexts. As always, treat this as a rough guide since actual research choices may vary. Also, much of this is drawn from the textbook: Social Research Methods, 5th Canadian edition, by Alan Bryman & Edward Bell.