DETERMINING IDEAL SAMPLE SIZE AND POPULATION FOR PHD RESEARCH
A comprehensive working paper on sample size and population for PhD research, organized as an extensive FAQ guide designed for both novice and seasoned scholars, supervisors, and new researchers. The paper addresses 25 critical questions spanning quantitative, qualitative, mixed-methods, and ELT-specific research contexts.
Key Features:
Structured FAQ Format - 25 questions organized into 8 sections progressively building from fundamental concepts to advanced applications
Three Research Paradigms Covered:
- Quantitative (power analysis, rules of thumb, specific sample size ranges)
- Qualitative (five saturation types with empirical sample size guidance)
- Mixed-methods (integration strategies for conflicting sample sizes)
ELT-Specific Guidance - Dedicated section (Q18-Q19) with typical sample sizes for ELT experiments, surveys, classroom observations, and mixed designs
Practical Problem-Solving - Addresses real challenges: handling constraints (Q8), managing dropout (Q10), navigating supervisor conversations (Q20), handling mid-study changes (Q22)
Comprehensive APA Citations - All sources cited using APA 7th edition format from recent authoritative methodological literature
Actionable Checklists & Templates - Includes documentation templates for quantitative and qualitative justifications, final checklist for proposals
Current Best Practices - Reflects 2024-2025 developments including information power framework, PRICE model for saturation, and recognition of emerging issues
Target Audience: PhD students, research supervisors, ELT specialists, and anyone designing PhD research needing defensible sample size justification.
