Data Collection Methods and Sources

Podcast

Play an AI-generated podcast conversation about this lesson

Questions and Answers

What are the two main types of sampling?

Stratified and Cluster

Convenience and Purposive

Simple and Complex

Random and Non-Random (correct)

The data collected from a census can be considered primary data.

True

What is the primary purpose of data collection?

To reach a sound and clear solution to a problem.

Non-sampling errors can be minimized by taking a larger sample.

False Signup and view all the answers

What are two of the commonly used types of survey methods for collecting data?

Personal interviews and mailing questionnaires. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT true about a sample in data collection?

It almost always provides more reliable data than a census. Signup and view all the answers

The difference between the sample estimate and the corresponding population parameter is known as the ______ error.

sampling Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is NOT a potential advantage of personal interviews over other data collection methods?

They are relatively inexpensive and time-efficient. Signup and view all the answers

What is the difference between primary data and secondary data?

Primary data is collected directly from the source, while secondary data is collected and processed by another agency. Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following statements is TRUE about the use of non-random sampling?

It relies on a predetermined selection process, often based on convenience or judgment. Signup and view all the answers

What is the purpose of a pilot survey?

To test the questionnaire's clarity, appropriateness, and effectiveness before conducting the full-scale survey. Signup and view all the answers

Exit polls are always accurate in predicting election results.

False Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following is a major disadvantage of mail surveys?

They can lead to a low response rate due to factors like non-return of the questionnaire or incomplete responses. Signup and view all the answers

Telephone interviews can be considered a cheaper and faster alternative to personal interviews.

True Signup and view all the answers

Which of the following scenarios would be most suitable for conducting a personal interview?

Conducting a research project to understand the cultural practices of a small, tightly-knit community. Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Collection of Data

Data collection is used to understand and solve problems
Primary data is collected by the researcher directly
Secondary data is collected by another party
Census collects information from everyone in a population
Sample surveys collect data from a subset of a population

Sources of Data

Data can be collected from primary or secondary sources
Government reports and other documents are secondary sources
Data from websites or newspapers can also be secondary sources

Data Collection Methods

Personal Interviews: Direct interaction with respondents
Mailing Questionnaires: Sending questionnaires by mail
Telephone Interviews: Using the phone to collect information
Pilot Surveys: Pre-testing questionnaires to find issues

Sampling and Non-Sampling Errors

Sampling Errors: Difference between a sample and the population
Non-sampling Errors: Errors in the collection, recording, or processing of the data
Larger samples generally lead to smaller sampling errors
Non-sampling errors can be more difficult to reduce

Census and Sample Surveys

Census: Includes every member of a population
Sample Survey: Involves a subset of the population
A sample can represent the population more efficiently and cost-effectively
Using data from a sample to represent an entire population requires careful sampling techniques

Types of Variables

Variables are used to represent data characteristics.
Variable values can change over time (or across populations)
Variables are generally represented by letters like X, Y, or Z

Questionnaire Preparation

Questionnaires should be concise and easy-to-understand
Avoid ambiguous or difficult words
Questions should progress from broad to specific

Data Collection Techniques

Open-ended Questions: Allow for free-form responses
Closed-ended Questions: Provide a set of options for responses
Two-way Questions: Have only two options (e.g., yes or no)
Multiple Choice Questions: Allow for selecting more than one option

Studying That Suits You

Use AI to generate personalized quizzes and flashcards to suit your learning preferences.

Description

Explore the essential techniques and sources for data collection in this quiz. Learn about primary and secondary data, various data collection methods, and the significance of sampling and non-sampling errors. Perfect for students looking to deepen their understanding of data collection practices.