Title: Sample design challenges: an educational research paradigm

Authors: Kalliopi Kanaki; Michail Kalogiannakis

Addresses: Department of Preschool Education, University of Crete, Rethymnon Campus, Gallos 74100, Greece ' Department of Preschool Education, University of Crete, Rethymnon Campus, Gallos 74100, Greece

Abstract: The primary factors that determine the quality of a study are the suitability of the methodology adopted and the research tools employed. Still, very important aspects that may enhance or weaken the robustness of a study are the sampling strategy and the sample size. Aiming at facilitating novice researchers to overcome obstacles concerning sampling, this paper discusses the relevant theoretical framework, answering the question of which steps to go through in a research study in order to conduct effective sampling. It also provides information on our experience regarding designing and implementing an educational research sampling. The valuation of the study outcomes confirmed the importance of conquering the sampling theory, driving us to the conclusion that, even in the case of carefully designing the sampling process, researchers have to remain vigilant about addressing sampling issues that might occur during the research process, reinforcing the reliability of their work.

Keywords: sampling; sample size; sample representativeness; sample accessibility; educational practices.

DOI: 10.1504/IJTEL.2023.131865

International Journal of Technology Enhanced Learning, 2023 Vol.15 No.3, pp.266 - 285

Received: 20 Apr 2022
Accepted: 06 Jul 2022
Published online: 04 Jul 2023 *

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