Data Collection Techniques

Questions and Answers

What is the primary purpose of data collection in research?

To answer research questions and evaluate outcomes (correct)

To analyze and interpret data

To select a research methodology

To identify research variables

What is a tool used in the data collection technique of interviewing?

Tape recorder (correct)

Checklist

Pen and paper

Questionnaire

What type of data is collected fresh from the field?

Secondary data

Quantitative data

Primary data (correct)

Qualitative data

What is the purpose of using available information in data collection?

To extract information required Signup and view all the answers

What is the category of data that has previously been collected for other purposes?

Secondary data Signup and view all the answers

What is a data collection technique that involves gathering information through direct observation?

Observation Signup and view all the answers

What is the tool used in the data collection technique of observation?

All of the above Signup and view all the answers

What is the main difference between primary and secondary data?

Source of data Signup and view all the answers

What is an advantage of using collective administration to distribute questionnaires?

It ensures a high response rate. Signup and view all the answers

What is the primary purpose of a cover letter accompanying a questionnaire?

To introduce the researcher and the institution they are representing. Signup and view all the answers

What is a limitation of using questionnaires for data collection?

They may result in a low response rate. Signup and view all the answers

What type of question is 'Please tick the type of research you would love to undertake. Applied research, Basic Research, descriptive research, quantitative research'?

Closed-ended question Signup and view all the answers

What is an advantage of using closed-ended questions in a questionnaire?

They make it easier to analyze the data. Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to assure respondents of anonymity in a questionnaire?

To encourage respondents to provide honest answers. Signup and view all the answers

What is a disadvantage of using open-ended questions in a questionnaire?

They are difficult to analyze. Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of spontaneous responses in a questionnaire?

They may not be possible in mailed questionnaires. Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of secondary data collection?

Using population census data to obtain information on age-sex structure of a population Signup and view all the answers

What is a characteristic of a questionnaire?

It is a written list of questions that are recorded by respondents Signup and view all the answers

What is a limitation of mailed questionnaires?

Low response rate Signup and view all the answers

What is an advantage of primary data collection?

It provides first-hand data Signup and view all the answers

Why is it important to have clear and easy-to-understand questions in a questionnaire?

So respondents can understand the questions without explanation Signup and view all the answers

What is an example of a primary data collection method?

Conducting an interview to gather information on people's attitudes towards health services Signup and view all the answers

What is a way to administer a questionnaire?

Mailing the questionnaire to prospective respondents Signup and view all the answers

What distinguishes a questionnaire from an interview guide?

In a questionnaire, respondents read and answer questions on their own, while in an interview guide, the researcher explains the questions to respondents Signup and view all the answers

Study Notes

Data Collection

Data collection is the process of gathering raw facts or evidence about a subject of interest to answer research questions and evaluate outcomes.

Data Collection Techniques and Tools

Data collection tools are instruments used to collect/retrieve data, such as:
- Questionnaires for administering written questions
- Interview guides, tape recorders, and checklists for interviewing
- Eyes, senses, and microscopes for observation
- Checklists and data forms for using available information

Approaches to Data Collection

There are two major approaches to gathering information:
- Collecting existing information (secondary data)
- Collecting fresh information from the field (primary data)

Types of Data

Secondary data:
- Previously collected data that can be used in the immediate study
- Examples include collective administration, available records, and data sources like journals and books
Primary data:
- Raw data originally collected by the researcher specifically for the study
- Examples include interviewing community inhabitants, using questionnaires to determine job satisfaction, and observing students' behaviors in class

Questionnaires

A questionnaire is a written list of questions, the answers to which are recorded by respondents
Importance of clear and easy-to-understand questions in a questionnaire
Ways of administering a questionnaire:
- Collective administration (e.g., in a classroom or function)
- Mailed questionnaire (with potential issues like low response rates)

Contents of a Questionnaire Cover Letter

Essential to include:
- Introduction of the researcher and institution
- Brief description of the study's main objective
- General instructions
- Assurance of anonymity
- Contact information for respondents' questions