Patton

Definition

Patton refers to a qualitative research approach that emphasizes the purposeful selection of participants based on specific characteristics or criteria that are relevant to the research objectives. This method is critical for researchers aiming to gather in-depth insights and detailed information from individuals who possess unique experiences or perspectives related to the study's focus.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Patton's approach allows researchers to target specific populations, making it ideal for exploratory studies where depth of understanding is more valuable than breadth.
2. This method facilitates the collection of rich, detailed narratives and contextual insights that can enhance the overall quality of qualitative research.
3. The criteria for participant selection in Patton's framework can include demographic factors, experiences, or specific knowledge areas related to the research question.
4. Utilizing Patton's method can lead to a more nuanced understanding of complex issues, as it encourages engagement with diverse perspectives within a focused context.
5. The effectiveness of purposive sampling, as highlighted by Patton, hinges on the researcher’s ability to identify and recruit participants who can provide meaningful insights relevant to the study.

Review Questions

• How does Patton’s approach to purposive sampling enhance qualitative research methodologies?
  • Patton's approach enhances qualitative research by allowing researchers to select participants who possess specific characteristics relevant to the study’s goals. This targeted selection helps gather rich and detailed data that captures diverse perspectives and experiences, which is crucial for understanding complex social phenomena. The depth of insight gained through purposive sampling ultimately strengthens the validity of qualitative findings.
• Discuss the implications of using purposive sampling in a study focused on marginalized communities, as suggested by Patton.
  • Using purposive sampling in studies focused on marginalized communities allows researchers to engage directly with individuals whose voices are often underrepresented in research. By selecting participants based on specific experiences or characteristics relevant to their community, researchers can uncover deeper insights into the challenges and strengths these groups face. This method not only enriches the data collected but also ensures that the findings accurately reflect the complexities of the community's realities.
• Evaluate how Patton's purposive sampling method could influence future research designs in social sciences.
  • Patton's purposive sampling method could significantly influence future research designs in social sciences by promoting a shift towards more intentional and criterion-based participant selection. Researchers may begin prioritizing depth over breadth, focusing on gaining detailed narratives that reveal underlying social dynamics. This approach encourages a richer exploration of subjects and promotes ethical considerations by ensuring that diverse voices are included in discussions surrounding social issues, ultimately enriching scholarly discourse and practical applications.

Related terms

Qualitative Research:

A research method that seeks to understand human behavior and the reasons that govern such behavior through non-numerical data.

Sampling Techniques: Methods used to select individuals or groups from a larger population for inclusion in a study, impacting the validity and reliability of research findings.

Criteria-Based Selection: A process of choosing participants based on predetermined criteria that align with the goals of the research, ensuring relevant insights are captured.