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How to Determine the Process Sample Size

A common dilemma among researchers after they have developed their research questions and decided on an approach is how to identify and determine the sample. Sample size is the number of participants, responses, or resources that need to be analyzed in order to satisfy a degree of precision or confidence in the outcome of the study. The manner in which one determines this is influenced by a number of factors including the purpose of the study, population size, risks, and the allowable sampling error, according to Glenn Israel, researcher and author of "Sampling the Evidence of Extension Program Impact."

Instructions

- 1
  Use the entire population as the sample. For a small study of 200 units or less consider using the entire population. This promotes a more desirable level of precision and reduces potential sampling errors.
- 2
  Consult a similar study. Methods used in prior related studies offer validity and reliability to new ones. Use the criterion from a related study as a guidance tool.
- 3
  Rely on published tables. Archival private or public data offer obtained responses that can satisfy precision, confidence, and variability requirements and eliminates the cost associated with other data collection methods.
- 4
  Derive the target using a established formula. A wide variety of formulas exist to calculate sample size. These include delimiters using proportions, mean and distribution.

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