EXPLORING ETHICAL AND CULTURAL FACTORS INFLUENCING PARTICIPATION IN SNOWBALL SAMPLING STUDIES

Dewin Arona Sikalumbi; Jonas Simbeye; Beatrice Chirwa

doi:10.31435/ijitss.3(47).2025.3494

Dewin Arona Sikalumbi Senior Lecturer, School of Business, ZCAS University https://orcid.org/0000-0003-2882-5517
Jonas Simbeye Lecturer, School of education, Chalimbana University
Beatrice Chirwa Senior Lecturer, School of Education, Chalimbana University

DOI: https://doi.org/10.31435/ijitss.3(47).2025.3494

Keywords: Snowball Sampling, Ethical Factors, Cultural Factors, Online Snowball Sampling

Abstract

This scoping review explores the ethical and cultural factors affecting participation in online snowball sampling studies among hard-to-reach populations. The guiding questions are: (1) What ethical factors influence participation in these studies? (2) What cultural factors affect potential participants' decisions? Snowball sampling relies on current participants recruiting future ones, a method increasingly utilized by qualitative researchers in social and health sciences. While previous reviews address ethical challenges and recommendations, such as concerns about data turnover and reputational risk, the ethical and cultural influences on participation in such online research are less understood. This study employs a scoping review methodology to identify, chart, and summarize the relevant literature. It adheres to scoping review methods while ensuring rigor and flexibility. A systematic search of online bibliographic databases yielded a dataset of articles, which were screened based on inclusion and exclusion criteria, followed by full-text screening. Data extracted from the selected articles, including publication details and topics—are thematically organized. This research only considers academic articles published in English and excludes conference abstracts, reports, books, government documents, dissertations, presentations, or grant applications.

Author Biography

Dewin Arona Sikalumbi, Senior Lecturer, School of Business, ZCAS University

Dr. Dewin Arona Sikalumbi stands as a pioneering force in Zambian academia, distinguishing himself as an influential thought leader and expert in entrepreneurship education and curriculum innovation. His visionary approach transcends traditional educational boundaries, focusing on empowering students with robust entrepreneurial capabilities and mindsets crucial for navigating contemporary economic landscapes. His innovative educational philosophy, deeply rooted in practical experience and theoretical knowledge has revolutionized the way business education should be approached. While working as Dean of the School of Business and Director of Research, Consultancy, and Innovation, Dr. Sikalumbi has created groundbreaking programs that effectively connect academic theory with practical application. His educational methodology prioritizes experiential learning, nurturing entrepreneurial mindsets and critical thinking skills among students. Through his leadership, he has established comprehensive frameworks for integrating entrepreneurship into various levels of education, from vocational training to higher education. His scholarly contributions have made a significant impact in education. His publications, including notable books like "The Entrepreneurial Cooperative" and "Success in Research," have become valuable educational resources. His editorial works on publications like "Inclusive Education" and "Zambia at 60" have contributed significantly to shaping educational discourse in Zambia. His research encompasses diverse areas, from cooperatives and innovation to strategic management and rural development. Dr. Sikalumbi's professional engagement extends across multiple domains, serving as a trainer at the Institute of Directors Zambia and as an examiner for key educational bodies. His involvement in numerous professional organizations, including ZICA, BUSTAZ, IoDZ, ECZ, TCZ, and ICA, reflects his dedication to comprehensive professional growth. For a decade now, he has led key research and educational committees, overseeing areas such as curriculum development, impactful research, policies, and quality assurance. Through various educational initiatives and mentorship programs, he continues to mold future business leaders and entrepreneurs, creating a lasting impact on economic development and community growth throughout Zambia and Africa.

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