Research notes determination of sample size and selection of the sample: Concepts, general sources, and software

Abstract

This article provides an introduction to sampling, determination of sample size, and selection of the actual sample. Given the complexity of the topic and the impossibility of covering all aspects of sampling in a brief article, the author focuses on concepts, general sources, and sampling software. These concepts are central to the computation of sample size for a random sample. The article identifies sources that provide formulae and procedures for determining sample size. By reading the literature referenced and exploring different software products, librarians conducting research and evaluation studies will better understand probability sampling and the decisions underlying the use of a particular sample size.