ABSTRACT
In Chapter 2, we pointed out the problems involved with sampling in mixed method research, especially when the components use strategies from different paradigms. The major difficulty occurs when the project is qualitatively-driven and the supplemental component quantitative (QUAL-quan). In this case, the sample for the core component is too small and lacks randomization, and therefore does not meet quantitative requirements of the supplemental component. When the project is quantitatively-driven and the supplemental component qualitative (QUAN-qual), the sample for the quantitative core component is too large and lacks purposive selection and therefore does not meet the qualitative requirements necessary for the qualitative supplemental component. Except in certain circumstances when these limitations can be surmounted, additional samples must be drawn for the supplemental component. First, however, we will describe the sampling procedures in qualitative and quantitative paradigms.
Principle #7: Sampling must be compatible with the assumptions belonging to the method or strategy that it serves.
