Sampling theory is the study of the relationship between a population and a group randomly picked as the representatives of the whole population (GCU 2018). This theory can be considered biased since the researcher is picking and choosing which group to research and what population they want to represent (GCU 2018). An example of sampling theory would be taking a population of smokers and starting them on nicotine gum and see if it helps the smokers quit smoking. The sample would be the population of smokers, changing their habits by starting the nicotine gum, and testing the results (Paul 2017).

Generalizability is the extension of research findings or conclusion made from the sample during a research on a large population. Using my previous example, the researcher is generalizing the smoking population that nicotine gum would help with smoking cessation when it most likely will not help everyone. Generalizability is big in the nursing research world because we study populations as a whole and try to come up with “generalized” solutions. These solutions may not help everyone specifically but will meet the need as a community (GCU 2018).

Using 200-300 words APA format with at least two references to support this discussion.

Describe sampling theory and provide examples to illustrate your definition. Discuss generalizability as it applies to nursing research.