What is the purpose behind purposive sampling?

Purposive sampling is a non-probability sampling technique where researchers intentionally select participants based on specific characteristics or criteria that are relevant to the research study. The primary purpose behind purposive sampling is to select elements for their unique knowledge, experience, or position that can provide valuable insights into the phenomenon being studied. This approach allows researchers to gather rich, detailed data from individuals who are particularly knowledgeable or who have specific experiences that are pivotal to understanding the research question.

For instance, if a study aims to investigate the experiences of teachers in a unique educational program, purposive sampling would enable the researcher to choose teachers who have participated in that program, ensuring that the selected participants can offer relevant insights due to their direct involvement and unique perspectives. This focus on qualitative depth rather than breadth is what distinguishes purposive sampling from other methods that aim for randomization or equal representation.