What is the form of sampling most commonly associated with qualitative research?

The form of sampling most commonly associated with qualitative research is purposeful sampling. This approach is deliberately employed to select individuals or groups that exhibit specific characteristics or experiences relevant to the research question. In qualitative research, the aim is often to gain in-depth insights into particular phenomena, making it essential to focus on participants who can provide rich, relevant information. Purposeful sampling allows researchers to target participants who fit these criteria, ensuring that the data collected is meaningful and pertinent to the study's objectives.

Convenience sampling, while used sometimes in qualitative research, does not align with the intent of obtaining insightful, relevant data since it relies on selecting readily available participants rather than those who meet specific research criteria. Random sampling is generally associated with quantitative research, aiming for representativeness and generalizability rather than depth of understanding. Snowball sampling, although useful in qualitative contexts, particularly for hard-to-reach populations, is more about recruitment through networks rather than the initial selection process dictated by the research question. Purposeful sampling stands out as the most aligned with the goals of qualitative inquiry by focusing on obtaining detailed, context-rich data from carefully chosen participants.