Qualitative Health Research· 2015Q1
Sample Size in Qualitative Interview Studies
- 11,367citations
- Q1SCImago
- 2015year
Short summary
A new concept, 'information power,' is proposed to determine adequate sample sizes in qualitative studies, moving beyond the inconsistent application of 'saturation.'
AI-generated from the title and abstract; the full text is not read.
Key points
- Proposes 'information power' to guide qualitative sample size, replacing 'saturation.'
- Information power suggests smaller samples are needed if they hold more relevant study information.
- Key factors influencing information power include study aim, sample specificity, theory use, dialogue quality, and analysis strategy.
- Presents a model relating these factors to information power for application in study planning and data collection.
AI-generated from the title and abstract; the full text is not read.
Abstract
Sample sizes must be ascertained in qualitative studies like in quantitative studies but not by the same means. The prevailing concept for sample size in qualitative studies is "saturation." Saturation is closely tied to a specific methodology, and the term is inconsistently applied. We propose the concept "information power" to guide adequate sample size for qualitative studies. Information power indicates that the more information the sample holds, relevant for the actual study, the lower amount of participants is needed. We suggest that the size of a sample with sufficient information power depends on (a) the aim of the study, (b) sample specificity, (c) use of established theory, (d) quality of dialogue, and (e) analysis strategy. We present a model where these elements of information and their relevant dimensions are related to information power. Application of this model in the planning and during data collection of a qualitative study is discussed.
The authors' abstract, as published at the source. Qualitative Health Research, 2015 · DOI ↗
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Field: Education
EducationSocial Sciences