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Cited by 267Qualitative Research Methods and ApplicationsQualitative Research Methods and EthicsSociology and Education Studies

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The SAGE Handbook of Qualitative Research Design

Flick, Uwe·2022·SAGE Publications Ltd eBooks
DOI 10.4135/9781529770278
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Abstract

Sampling is somewhat underemphasized compared to how data are collected and analyzed in empirical qualitative research. Yet qualitative research in particular needs transparent and comprehensible procedures about how to select units of analysis. In this chapter, we will address this issue in three major steps. First, we will start with discussing some basic questions. Respecting the claim that social research has to yield results that go beyond a single case, we will outline how different research purposes such as principles of generalization – which are presented and discussed in more detail in an extra chapter (see Maxwell, Chapter 20) – constitute a framework for sampling that is shaped by various contextual factors. Depending on the respective positions in these areas, sampling has to meet different criteria. Second, we will outline how major approaches to qualitative research deal with sampling questions: ethnography (see Buscatto, Chapter 28, this Handbook), phenomenology (see Eberle, Chapter 7), grounded theory (see Thornberg and Keane, Chapter 27), critical discourse analysis (see Kutter and Masson, Chapter 62), and case study research (see Tight, Chapter 24). What is their general understanding of sampling? Do they suggest specific criteria and procedures regarding how to sample? Which definitions of sampling units do they apply, if any? Which criteria do they suggest to use in order to decide about sample size and saturation? Previous research indicates a remarkable…

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Metadata

Authors
Flick, U.
Corresponding author
Flick, Uwe
ORCID
Flick, Uwe
Venue
SAGE Publications Ltd eBooks
Publisher
SAGE Publications Ltd
Published
2022
DOI
10.4135/9781529770278
OpenAlex
W4226161314
Cited by
267
References
0
Citations by year
2026: 37 · 2025: 103 · 2024: 82 · 2023: 29 · 2022: 11
FWCI
163.09
Type
book
Language
en
Open access
closed
Locations
SAGE Publications Ltd eBooks (publishedVersion)
Topics
  • Social Sciences › Education › Qualitative Research Methods and Applications
  • Social Sciences › Sociology and Political Science › Qualitative Research Methods and Ethics
  • Social Sciences › Sociology and Political Science › Sociology and Education Studies
Keywords
qualitative sampling, sampling design, sampling units, convenience sampling, saturation, sample size, ethnography, phenomenology, grounded theory, critical discourse analysis, case study research, research design

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