THE SATURATION POINT IN QUALITATIVE RESEARCH METHODS

INTRODUCTION:  Previously we have been looking at determination of sample size in a research project and in some of our discussions we noted that unlike in quantitative research methods, in the qualitative research methods we do not have a predetermined sample size.  Data is collected until no more new ideas and issues are coming up, and this is what we call the saturation point.  

THE CONCEPT OF DATA STATURATION:  The concept of saturation point refers to the stage in data collection where you, as a researcher, are discovering no or very little new information from your respondents. In qualitative research this is considered an indication of the adequacy of the sample size.  And therefore termed "The saturation point".  At this point the researcher will terminate the data collection process and continue with the next step of the research report.

POINT TO NOTE:  Although the saturation point may seem a little like 4-10 respondents, sometimes as a researcher you have to be a little patient and increase the number more than that, to be sure that all the possible responses are captured.

Sometimes you feel saturated at a lower number and by increasing the number or continuing to collect more data from more respondents, you notice fresh and very new ideas not explored before.  What I would say for that matter is that; collect data from as many respondents as possible.

RELATED;

1.  Qualitative research

2.  Sample size determination

3.  Research methodology

References