What is the ideal sample size for qualitative research publications in Economics?

1 Sampling logic

Unlike quantitative research, which relies on statistical methods and large samples to generalize results to a population, qualitative research adopts a different logic of sampling. Qualitative sampling is based on the principle of saturation, which means that you collect data until you reach a point where no new or relevant information emerges from your sources. Saturation depends on the scope and depth of your research question, the diversity and complexity of your sample, and the quality and richness of your data. Therefore, there is no fixed or universal formula to calculate the ideal sample size for qualitative research publications in Economics, but rather a flexible and iterative process that requires constant reflection and evaluation.

2 Sampling strategies

When conducting qualitative research in Economics, you can choose from various sampling strategies depending on your research purpose and design. Purposive sampling involves selecting data sources based on specific criteria or characteristics that are relevant to your topic. Snowball sampling starts with a few data sources that meet the criteria and then ask them to refer to other potential sources with similar attributes or experiences. Convenience sampling involves selecting data sources that are easily accessible and available, while theoretical sampling involves selecting data sources to develop or test a theory or conceptual framework based on emerging patterns or gaps in the data. Each strategy has its own advantages and disadvantages, so it is important to consider the implications and limitations of your choice for research quality and validity.

3 Sampling size

When it comes to determining the ideal sample size for qualitative research publications in Economics, a variety of factors need to be taken into account, such as the research question and objectives, the data collection and analysis methods, the sample characteristics and diversity, and the data quality and richness. Generally speaking, for interviews a sample size of 15 to 30 participants is typically adequate to reach saturation and provide a comprehensive understanding of the research topic. Similarly, for observations 10 to 20 settings or events may be sufficient to capture the diversity and complexity of the phenomena. Lastly, for documents 50 to 100 documents may be enough to provide a rich and reliable source of data. However, these numbers are not set in stone; they may vary depending on the specific context and purpose of your research.

4 Sampling justification

One of the most important aspects of qualitative research publications in Economics is to justify and explain your sampling decisions and procedures. You should provide a clear and transparent account of how you selected your data sources, how many data sources you included, and how you determined that your sample size was appropriate for your research question and objectives. You should also acknowledge the limitations and biases of your sampling strategy, and how they may affect your research findings and implications. By providing a solid and convincing justification of your sampling, you will enhance the credibility and validity of your qualitative research publications in Economics.

5 Sampling reporting

Another crucial aspect of qualitative research publications in Economics is to report your sampling information and results in a clear and concise manner. You should provide a summary of your sample characteristics and diversity, such as the number, type, and description of your data sources, and the categories or subgroups that you identified in your sample. You should also describe your data collection and analysis methods, and how you reached saturation or the point of data sufficiency. You should present your findings and interpretations in relation to your sample, and highlight the main themes, patterns, or insights that emerged from your data. You should also discuss the implications and limitations of your findings, and how they relate to the existing literature and theory in Economics.

6 Here’s what else to consider

This is a space to share examples, stories, or insights that don’t fit into any of the previous sections. What else would you like to add?