An important part of a research study is sampling and data collection. These are crucial for nurses to understand in order to develop a successful research study.

Tasks:

In a minimum of 200 words, post your response to the following:

Within the context of nursing research, what is sampling? How are samples selected, and what elements are included in a good sampling plan? What is representativeness, and why is this characteristic important to a successful research effort?

Refer to Chapter 10 in your module readings as necessary when answering these questions. When you are finished, compare your response with that of at least two other students. What important aspects of sampling might they have overlooked, and vice versa?

Consider sharing your own experiences and interpretation of the research. Support your findings with examples and scholarly references. Apply APA standards to citation of sources.