Which sampling method is being used by the researcher in this scenario?

The researcher first identifies a student who had COVID-19 through a lecturer. Then, while collecting data from this student, the researcher asks this student to refer other Bachelor of Education (BEd) students who also had COVID-19. This method of using existing participants to recruit future participants is characteristic of snowball sampling.

• Snowball sampling: This method is used when potential participants are hard to find. It relies on referrals from initial participants to generate additional participants.
• Convenience sampling: Involves selecting participants who are readily available and accessible to the researcher. While the initial contact might involve some convenience, the subsequent referral process is the defining characteristic.
• Purposive sampling: Involves the researcher deliberately selecting participants based on specific characteristics. While the initial selection of the first student might have elements of purposive sampling (selecting someone who had COVID-19), the key element described is the referral chain.
• Quota sampling: Involves selecting participants based on pre-defined quotas to ensure representation of different subgroups. This is not described in the scenario.

The correct option is:

• Snowball sampling