Determining Sample Size: Balancing Power, Precision, And Practicality (pocket Guide To Social Work Research Methods)
by Patrick Dattalo /
2008 / English / PDF
900.8 KB Download
A researcher's decision about the sample to draw in a study may
have an enormous impact on the results, and it rests on numerous
statistical and practical considerations that can be difficult to
juggle. Computer programs help, but no single software package
exists that allows researchers to determine sample size across all
statistical procedures. This pocket guide shows social work
students, educators, and researchers how to prevent some of the
mistakes that would result from a wrong sample size decision by
describing and critiquing four main approaches to determining
sample size. In concise, example-rich chapters, Dattalo covers
sample-size determination using power analysis, confidence
intervals, computer-intensive strategies, and ethical or cost
considerations, as well as techniques for advanced and emerging
statistical strategies such as structural equation modeling,
multilevel analysis, repeated measures MANOVA and repeated measures
ANOVA. He also offers strategies for mitigating pressures to
increase sample size when doing so may not be feasible. Whether as
an introduction to the process for students or as a refresher for
experienced researchers, this practical guide is a perfect overview
of a crucial but often overlooked step in empirical social work
research.
A researcher's decision about the sample to draw in a study may
have an enormous impact on the results, and it rests on numerous
statistical and practical considerations that can be difficult to
juggle. Computer programs help, but no single software package
exists that allows researchers to determine sample size across all
statistical procedures. This pocket guide shows social work
students, educators, and researchers how to prevent some of the
mistakes that would result from a wrong sample size decision by
describing and critiquing four main approaches to determining
sample size. In concise, example-rich chapters, Dattalo covers
sample-size determination using power analysis, confidence
intervals, computer-intensive strategies, and ethical or cost
considerations, as well as techniques for advanced and emerging
statistical strategies such as structural equation modeling,
multilevel analysis, repeated measures MANOVA and repeated measures
ANOVA. He also offers strategies for mitigating pressures to
increase sample size when doing so may not be feasible. Whether as
an introduction to the process for students or as a refresher for
experienced researchers, this practical guide is a perfect overview
of a crucial but often overlooked step in empirical social work
research.
