Criterion Sampling in Research

Criterion sampling involves the selection of sample based on some pre-established criteria. This criteria is of importance to the research in most significant way. This kind of sampling helps researcher study a very specific or narrow criteria and understand the implications of it. This enables the researcher study the criteria in depth and with emphasis.

How to do criterion research?

In criterion research, the researcher first identifies a criteria that is important to the research. The researcher identifies the participants that have that information and studies the cases that meet that criteria. Participants are selected on the bases that they have knowledge and experience with the phenomenon of interest and therefore will be able to provide information. Usually there is a large group of sample and from it we draw a sample that can provide the information. Therefore the information we get is both in depth and generalizable to a larger group.

Merits of criterion research

1. Criterion sampling can be useful for identifying and understanding cases that are information rich.
2. It can provide an important qualitative component to quantitative data.
3. Also, it can be useful for identifying cases from a standardized questionnaire that might be useful for follow-up. 
4. It also helps identify any weaknesses in a system and find ways for improvement.
5. This sampling technique also helps identify the weaknesses or problems in a system.

References

• Cohen D, Crabtree B. “Qualitative Research Guidelines Project.” July 2006. http://www.qualres.org/HomeCrit-3814.html

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