Sample sizes, in qualitative research, may be too small to support claims of having achieved either saturation, or too large to permit the deep, case-oriented analysis that is the raison-d'être of qualitative inquiry.
To continue the discussion, I think this is also related to the subject matter and the context in which it is immersed. In some cases this approach provides us consider an initial size, based on key informants in the area (for example in the study of a community); in this case, the final size could be given by the results themselves being obtained, be obtained speeches which ultimately indicate if it has reached saturation mentioned in the previous thread of this post by Dr. Lluis Ballester. Following his question, I would like to know the information and an example (reference) in which said sample is theoretically justified; with the exception of the case study of a community that I mentioned.
Simply, the question. What is it you wish to kniw more about and why do you want to know? Do you for example want to build knowledge, theory or understanding, seek explanation, make a comparison or seek meaning contained within experience.
The question will lead you to the methodology and method which will in turn leads you to the literature guiding you in the direction of sample size. Although notably, this can be quite controversial.
Nevertheless, if you seek a depth of meaning, one participant may be all that is required, for example using IPA, however, saturation in this instance would not be appropriate. Whereas in GT, theoretical sampling might be appropriate to generate enough information on which to build a theory. In this instance, the sampling cut off point may be guided by saturation point. Therefore, using the saturation criteria would be appropriate.
Saturation however is not used in all forms of qualitaive enquiry and is discussed elsewhere on this forum so you might want to take a look.
The key to a good research outcome lies in the preparation. My advice would be to go back to your question.
Good luck
Mary
Dear Lluís Ballester, I am researching the social representations in the secundary teacher discourse about the relationship between family and secundary school. I have read your paper: Limitacions per a la participació educativa de les famílies als centres de secundària de les illes Balears. I am interested to know if you have other paper more extensive of this same research.
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