Probability sampling
from a complete list of members of the population under study (frame) subjects for the sample are selected at random (each selection is entirely independent of the next, so each member of the population has an equal chance of being selected)
simple random sampling
choosing the nearest individuals to serve as respondents
convenience sampling
Data analysis is statistical and data collection numerical; all variables are measurable
Quantitative
Word limit
1500 words (excluding references and appendices)
involves gathering existing data that has already been produced
Secondary research
every nth member of the investigated population is selected
systematic sampling
researchers rely on volunteers, e.g. people who reply to an advertisement
volunteer sampling
focuses on lives and experiences of women; assumes they have been ignored or misinterpreted
Feminist research
roughly 600 words; 40% of your report should be devoted to this section
Methodology
measurable characteristic of the individuals within the investigated population or sample
variable
the investigated population is divided into homogeneous groups, and a random sample of a proportionate size is selected from each group
stratified random sampling
researchers identify individuals who have the characteristics in which they are interested; these people identify others who qualify for inclusion, and these, in turn, identify yet others
snowball sampling
theory emerges from the data;
not testing hypothesis
grounded theory
establish what is already known and identify gaps
literature review
participants don’t know if they are in the experimental or control group; frontline researchers also don’t know which participants are in the experimental or control group
double blind experiment
larger groupings or units of the investigated population (e.g. schools, cities) are randomly selected; then all members of each grouping are tested
cluster sampling
researchers handpick the cases to be included in the sample on the basis of their possession of the particular characteristics being sought
purposive sampling
Does not “do” research “on” people but works with them, as a facilitator
Action research
section that includes copies of research material used, such as questions that were used in interviews, focus group sessions, questionnaires (a copy of the actual questionnaire is needed) or participant observation.
Appendices
A proposed explanation for phenomena
Hypothesis
larger groupings of the investigated population (e.g. schools, cities) are randomly selected; then random samples are taken from each grouping
stage sampling
the sample reflects the characteristics of the wider population in the proportions in which they can be found in the wider population (stratified sampling without the random element)
quota sampling
Immerse themselves in the lives and culture of groups they study; for months on end
ethnographic theory
approximate word count for each section
Introduction (roughly 150 words)
Literature Review (roughly 300 words)
Methodology (roughly 600 words)
Results (roughly 300 words)
Conclusion (roughly 150 words)
confidentiality, anonymity, right to comment, Data Protection - treating participants with respect and keep disruption to minimum