Quantitative Research Sampling - Paper Example

Quantitative Research refers to the systemic empirical exploration of the observable phenomena through computational, statistical or mathematical techniques. This research aims to develop as well as hypotheses, mathematical models, and theories regarding phenomena. The method of measurement is a very significant tool as it provides us with the connection between mathematical expression and the empirical observations. The purpose of the technique is to predict, explain and control the phenomena via a focused collection of the numerical data that is used to test the hypothesis and make deductions. The approach is focused, objective and outcome oriented. The method can be controlled to a degree. It is random, and the intent is to select a large representative sample to generalize the results to a population. There are standardized and numerical measurements and numbers at the end. The method is structured, inflexible, and specified in detail. The raw data are numbers at the end of the study. The advantage of this strategy is that the method is standardized hence effective in comparing results from similar studies (Bryman, 2015). It eliminates bias it involves many cases and few variables. The technique is reliable and valid since it employs prescribed procedures. The disadvantage of this method is that standardization may cause biases (Creswell, 2013).

Qualitative Research Sampling Strategy

Qualitative Research is a method of inquiry that is used in many academic disciplines like natural sciences and social sciences. The strategy emphasizes the importance of looking at variables in their natural setting where they are found. This method is text-based, unlike the quantitative method which is number based (Brannen, 2017). The inductive process is used to formulate the theory or hypothesis whereas in the quantitative method the primary deductive process is used to test the pre-specified concepts, suggestions and the constructs that make up an argument. This approach is less generalized. It also has unstructured and semi-structured response options, unlike the quantitative method which has fixed response options (Creswell, 2013). The advantages of the method are that the subjects and issues can be evaluated in depth and interviews are not limited to particular questions. The disadvantages are the fact that the quality of the research is dependent on skills of the researcher and findings can be time-consuming and difficult to present in visual ways.

Discussion Prompt 2

The sample that is used to represent the whole population should be chosen carefully since an inappropriate sample size and quality can put the entire research project into question. The researcher selects the sample size regarding the size of the more significant population, the item in question and the kind of information that the researcher wants to collect. My research question is What are the effects of Alzheimers on the patients family members. and my sample size is 30. I choose the sample size to be thirty since this is an appropriate representation of the whole population. The sample size is not enormous hence will give accurate results.

References

Brannen, J. (Ed.). (2017). Mixing methods: Qualitative and quantitative research. Routledge.

Bryman, A. (2015). Social research methods. Oxford university press.

Creswell, J. W. (2013). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approaches. Sage publications.