1 postsRe: Topic 3 DQ 2
Sampling theory is the study of the relationship between a population and a group randomly picked as the representatives of the whole population (GCU 2018). This theory can be considered biased since the researcher is picking and choosing which group to research and what population they want to represent (GCU 2018). An example of sampling theory would be taking a population of smokers and starting them on nicotine gum and see if it helps the smokers quit smoking. The sample would be the population of smokers, changing their habits by starting the nicotine gum, and testing the results (Paul 2017).
Generalizability is the extension of research findings or conclusion made from the sample during a research on a large population. Using my previous example, the researcher is generalizing the smoking population that nicotine gum would help with smoking cessation when it most likely will not help everyone. Generalizability is big in the nursing research world because we study populations as a whole and try to come up with “generalized” solutions. These solutions may not help everyone specifically but will meet the need as a community (GCU 2018).
Using 200-300 words APA format with at least two references to support this discussion.
Sampling theory is a fundamental concept in research that involves selecting a subset of individuals or elements from a larger population to make inferences about the entire population. It is essential to recognize that while sampling theory offers numerous advantages, it also introduces potential biases. When researchers choose a specific group to study, they inherently make decisions about which population they want to represent. This process can be influenced by various factors, such as convenience, cost, or practicality, which can affect the generalizability of research findings (GCU, 2018).
For instance, in the case of studying the effectiveness of nicotine gum in helping smokers quit, the sample selected from the population of smokers may not fully represent all smokers’ characteristics, habits, or preferences. This sampling bias can lead to results that are not universally applicable to all smokers. Therefore, researchers must acknowledge the limitations of their samples and be cautious when making generalizations about the broader population based on their findings (Paul, 2017).
Generalizability, on the other hand, is the process of extending research findings or conclusions from a sample to a larger population. It plays a vital role in nursing research, where the aim is often to develop interventions or guidelines that can benefit a broader community or patient population. While it may not be feasible to study every individual within a population, the goal is to derive knowledge that can apply to a majority of the population or target group.
However, it’s essential to understand that generalizability is not always straightforward, especially when dealing with diverse and heterogeneous populations. The level of generalizability depends on the representativeness of the sample and the rigor of the research design. Researchers must carefully consider the characteristics of their sample and the context in which their findings are applicable when attempting to generalize results to a larger population (GCU, 2018).
In conclusion, sampling theory is a crucial aspect of research that helps in the selection of representative samples from populations. While it can introduce biases, generalizability is essential for extending research findings to broader populations. Researchers must be mindful of these concepts and their limitations to ensure the validity and applicability of their research findings to real-world situations.
References:
GCU. (2018). NUR-504 Topic 3: Sampling and Generalizability. Grand Canyon University.
Paul, J. A. (2017). Fundamentals of Nursing Research: A Practical Guide. Jones & Bartlett Learning.