Determining Validity, Reliability, and Sample Size in Qualitative Research

Quantitative approaches offer important insights into human behaviour, yet they may not adequately reflect the contextual and subjective nuances inherent in such behaviour. While quantitative research methods are useful for explaining relationships between variables, they may have limitations when it comes to gaining in-depth understanding of a specific context. Quantitative research has generally accepted criteria regarding validity, reliability, sampling methods, and sample size; however, these aspects remain a topic of debate for qualitative research. Quantitative research has established standards for validity, reliability, sampling methods, and sample size. In contrast, these criteria are often debated in qualitative research, especially when qualitative approaches are evaluated using frameworks derived from quantitative traditions. Qualitative research relies on distinct methodologies that are tailored to explore complex phenomena in context. This study addresses the debates on the validity and reliability of qualitative research and provides information about the validity, reliability, sampling methods, and sample size in qualitative studies. Within this framework, the study aims to clarify ongoing debates regarding the validity, reliability, sampling methods, and sample size in qualitative research, thereby offering a structured overview that may guide researchers in designing and evaluating qualitative studies.