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.
