In quantitative research, if the populations are homogenous, then the --- sample size may be sufficient.

RRB Nsg Superintendent -29 April 2025 (Shift-1st)

Nursing Research & Statistics

Easy

Appeared in: RRB Nsg Superintendent -29 April 2025 (Shift-1st)

Explanation

A homogenous population consists of individuals who are very similar regarding the study variables, resulting in low data variability.
Due to this low variability, a smaller number of participants is needed to accurately represent the entire population's characteristics.
As confirmed by research principles, when a population is homogeneous, their responses are likely to be close, making a large sample inefficient and unnecessary.
Therefore, a small sample can provide a precise estimate of the population parameters without wasting resources.

Option A: A large sample size is not necessary for a homogenous population because the low variability means data saturation is reached quickly.
Option C: A very large sample size is highly inefficient and unnecessary for a homogenous population. It would lead to collecting redundant data.
Option D: While the required sample is 'small' relative to what's needed for a heterogeneous population, the term 'very small' can imply a sample size that is too small to be statistically powerful or valid. 'Small sample size' is the more appropriate and standard term.

Visual 1: Infographic: A diagram comparing two populations. One is homogenous (e.g., all same-colored dots), illustrating that a small sample can be representative. The other is heterogeneous (e.g., multi-colored dots), showing why a larger sample is needed to capture the diversity.

Clinical Relevance

Nursing practice connection: This is primarily an exam-oriented knowledge point with limited direct bedside application, so retain Sample size determination in quantitative research as background academic context rather than a clinical decision trigger.
When reading research, nurses must be able to critique the methodology. Understanding that a study on a very specific, homogenous group (e.g., 'first-year female nursing students aged 18-20 at a single institution') can be valid with a smaller sample is a key appraisal skill.
This knowledge helps nurses avoid dismissing a study solely based on a small sample size, provided the population was homogenous and the sample was appropriately selected.
What if? If the research question was about the 'coping mechanisms of bedside nurses in India', the population would be extremely heterogeneous (varying by age, experience, specialty, hospital type, location, etc.). In that case, a small sample would be inadequate, and a much larger, stratified sample would be necessary to achieve generalizability.

How to Approach the Question

First, identify the core concepts in the question: 'quantitative research', 'homogenous populations', and 'sample size'.
Recall the definition of a 'homogenous' population in a research context: individuals are very similar with respect to the variables of interest.
Apply the fundamental principle of sampling theory: The more similar the individuals in a population, the fewer you need to sample to get an accurate picture of the whole group.
Conversely, the more diverse (heterogeneous) the population, the more individuals you need to sample to capture that diversity.
Based on this logic, a homogenous population requires a 'small' sample.
Evaluate the given options. 'Large' and 'very large' are incorrect as they apply to heterogeneous populations. 'Small sample size' is the standard and correct term. 'Very small' is a less precise distractor.

Concept Tested & Keywords

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