Qualitative research emphasizes and develops a detailed understanding of participants’ experiences. It is unconcerned with sample representativeness; therefore, it does not apply a priori sample size estimation—as in quantitative inquiry. Instead, it employs a non-probability sampling method (e.g., convenience sampling, quota sampling, or snowball sampling). In other words, individuals are chosen for the sample because they can furnish elaborate inputs to address the questions under investigation. A common principle for determining the adequacy of qualitative data is saturation, which refers to the notion that additional data collection or analysis is unnecessary based on the data that has been already gathered or analyzed. The following can render germane guidance.

Saunders, B., Sim, J., Kingstone, T., Baker, S., Waterfield, J., Bartlam, B., Burroughs, H., & Jinks, C. (2018). Saturation in qualitative research: Exploring its conceptualization and operationalization. Qual Quant,52(4), 1893–1907. https://doi.org/10.1007/s11135-017-0574-8

Sim, J., Saunders, B., Waterfield, J., & Kingstone, T. (2018). Can sample size in qualitative research be determined a priori? International Journal of Social Research Methodology, 21(5), 619–634. https://doi.org/10.1080/13645579.2018.1454643

Good luck,

Dear Alotumi

thank you for your prompt response

In terms of my research question, which qualitative approach is suitable to employ?

The three primary methods for collecting qualitative data are interviews, observation, and content analysis of text. In this case, interviewing seems like the most likely source, and given the topic, you might well want to do online interviews.

In terms of qualitative evaluation in general, Michael Patton's textbook is a very valuable resource.

I am Grateful Dr. David.

based on your point of view, which Qualitative approach such as Ground Theory, action research, ethnography, phenomenology, ... is suitable for my research question.

Evaluation is itself a research goal, so you do not any further theoretical framework.

Regarding my research question, my supervisor asked me to do Synthesizing literature. Following paragraph is as an example of SL that i have done in terms of online learning challenge. So, based on your knowledge is it appropriate to employ this structure as SL for rest of the my paper?

Technological literacy

Information technology literacy defined as an information, media, and technology skills that play pivotal roles to have a efficacious citizenships and employment(Izzo et al., 2010). Studies of online learning challenges reveal conflicting conclusion regarding technology literacy as one of the main challenges of online learning. Although Rasheed (2020) found that technology use and competency were the most common challenges among participants in online course, Barrot (2021) determined in developing countries technology literacy was the least challenge of online course among students, suggesting that other effective variables such as confounders, moderators and mediators that are associated with technology literacy and online learning must be examined closely between developing countries and developed ones. Having said that, Gibson(2008) showed that students and instructor’s perceived usefulness of online course was associated with their acceptance of technology (Gibson et al., 2008), whereas perceived ease of use of online course did not play a crucial role in students' and teachers’ technology acceptance. Given the importance of technology literacy in online learning (Barrot,2021; Rasheed,202;Gibson, 2008), it is important to be familiarized with this challenge in online course to overcome these obstacle and thereby have effective online learning course.

The approach is generic qualitative inquiry. Specifically, you could frame your research within the utilization-focused evaluation, a pragmatically driven qualitative method (Patton, 2015). Below is the full citation.

Patton, M. Q. (2015). Qualitative research & evaluation methods: Integrating theory and practice (4th ed). Sage Publications. https://us.sagepub.com/en-us/nam/qualitative-research-evaluation-methods/book232962

Good luck,

I suggest a mixed method for that study...

Hi, evaluation of online course using qualitative approach may include,

1. literature review and analysis

2. content analysis of course content/modules

3. In-depth interviews with training participants as well as resource persons/trainers

4. Participant observation of a few online sessions (if permitted to attend)

5. SWOT analysis

hope this helps!

Hi there,

You can calculate the sample by using the next link:

http://www.raosoft.com/samplesize.html