Quantitative Methods and Analysis - Essay Example

Running Heading: Sample Size Determination Sample Size Determination SAMPLE SIZE DETERMINATION: Determination of the sample size is one of the most important element in the research design of any research study. The researcher should ensure that the size of the sample is such that it is able to represent the whole population under consideration and the results of the research study can easily be generalized to the target population. Small sample size is not able to provide the valid statistical results of the experiment or treatment.

At the same time it is important to keep in consideration that the sample does not include large number of subjects because this will result in making the research inefficient if the same results can be generated with the help of small sample size. Hence it is important to select optimal level of sample size. The sample size depends on some variables or parameters which should be considered by the researchers. These four parameters are: the level of statistical power, p level, variability associated with treatment, and error variability (DMS, 2006).

SAMPLE SIZE CALCULATOR:The first sample size calculator selected is available on the website of Raosoft (2004). This calculator calculate sample size on the basis of margin of error or confidence interval, confidence level, population size, and response distribution. For example with 10% margin of error or confidence interval, 95% confidence level, 2000 population size, and 50% response distribution the sample size according to this calculator is minimum 96 subjects. The second sample size calculator selected is available on the website of Macorr Research Solutions.

This calculator calculate sample size on the basis of confidence level, confidence interval, and population. For example, if the confidence level is 95%, confidence interval is 10%, and population size is 2000 the sample size according to this calculator is 92 subjects.REFERENCESDMS (2006). Determination of sample size. Retrieved October 19, 2011, from Macoor Research Solutions. Sample size calculator. Retrieved October 19, 2011, from Raosoft (2004). Sample size calculator. Retrieved October 19, 2011, from