Participant selection procedures in qualitative research: experiences and some points for consideration

Area of Science:

• Social Sciences
• Education Research

Background:

• Qualitative research methodologies are prevalent in social sciences and education.
• Existing literature often lacks focused discussion on participant selection procedures within specific qualitative approaches.

Purpose of the Study:

• To examine participant selection procedures across seven distinct qualitative methodologies.
• To provide practical insights and guidelines for researchers on participant recruitment.
• To encourage deeper consideration of participant selection in qualitative research design.

Main Methods:

• The study draws on the authors' experiences with seven qualitative methodologies: auto/ethnography, narrative inquiry, participatory action research, ethnography, case study, grounded theory, and phenomenology.
• It involves an examination of the discourse surrounding participant selection within these chosen methodologies.

Main Results:

• Highlights unique nuances and differences in participant selection across the seven methodologies.
• Identifies areas for practical guidance for novice and experienced researchers.
• Offers points for consideration to enhance the understanding and application of participant selection techniques.

Conclusions:

• Effective participant selection is crucial for the rigor and validity of qualitative studies.
• Researchers should carefully consider the specific methodological context when designing participant selection strategies.
• This work serves as a resource to foster more deliberate and informed participant recruitment in qualitative research.