Process / pipelineSampling

Online Purposive Sampling

Online purposive sampling applies the logic of criterion-based participant selection to digital recruitment channels — including social media platforms, online communities, email lists, and research recruitment websites. Researchers intentionally seek individuals who possess the characteristics, experiences, or expertise directly relevant to the research question, using internet-based tools to locate and screen them. The method preserves the defining feature of purposive sampling — deliberate selection based on fitness for purpose — while leveraging the reach and accessibility of online environments.

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Sources

  1. Patton, M. Q. (2002). Qualitative Research and Evaluation Methods (3rd ed.). Sage Publications. ISBN: 978-0761919711
  2. Andrews, D., Nonnecke, B., & Preece, J. (2003). Electronic survey methodology: A case study in reaching hard-to-involve Internet users. International Journal of Human-Computer Interaction, 16(2), 185-210. DOI: 10.1207/S15327590IJHC1602_04

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Referenced by

ScholarGateOnline Purposive Sampling (Online Purposive Sampling). Retrieved 2026-06-04 from https://scholargate.app/en/survey-methodology/online-purposive-sampling