ABSTRACT

Qualitative research sample size determination has always been a contentious and confusing issue. Studies are often vague when explaining the processes and justifications that have been used to determine sample size and strategy. Some provide no mention of sampling at all, whilst others rely too heavily on the concept of saturation for determining an eventual sample size in qualitative studies. In consideration of the many real-world factors that often influence qualitative studies, this article contributes a strategic and holistic approach to a priori and ongoing mapping of sample size determination in qualitative research via an analytical tool termed DEJA. Utilising a four-step approach, DEJA guides users to articulate and understand the various considerations that influence sampling based on the unique characteristics of their study and research approach. Thus, DEJA begins to move beyond saturation alone by articulating the multiplicity of considerations in qualitative research sample size determination.

摘要

定性研究样本量的确定一直是一个有争议且令人困惑的问题。在解释用于确定样本量和策略的过程和理由时，研究通常含糊不清。有些根本没有提到抽样，而另一些则过于依赖饱和度的概念来确定定性研究中的最终样本量。考虑到经常影响定性研究的许多现实世界因素，本文通过称为 DEJA 的分析工具为定性研究中样本量确定的先验和持续映射提供了一种战略和整体方法。采用四步法，DEJA 指导用户根据他们的研究和研究方法的独特特征阐明和理解影响抽样的各种考虑因素。因此，DEJA 通过阐明定性研究样本量确定中的多重考虑，开始超越饱和。