Field Work & Data Collection

• Field work (data collection) allows students to gather necessary data and document progress.

Introduction

• Module aims to guide researchers in gathering data for research completion.

Chapter 1: Introduction

• Provides background on the research topic.
• States the research problem or question.
• Explains the significance of the research.
• Outlines study objectives and aims.
• Defines scope and limitations.
• Previews organization and structure.

Chapter 2: Literature Review

• Reviews relevant literature related to the research topic.
• Summarizes key findings from previous studies.
• Identifies research gaps, contradictions, or limitations in existing research.
• Establishes the theoretical and conceptual basis.
• Compares and contrasts theories, methodologies, and findings.
• Provides the foundation for the research design and methodology.

Data Gathering Instrument and Analysis Procedures

• Data collection seeks to capture quality evidence to answer posed questions.
• Quality information from data collection is essential for informed decisions.
• Data should be collected to allow inferences and informed decisions based on facts.

Types of Data Collection

• Data collection falls into primary and secondary categories.
• Primary data collection involves gathering raw data directly from the source for a specific research purpose.
• It can be further analyzed through qualitative and quantitative data collection methods.
• Secondary data collection involves gathering second-hand data collected by someone else.
• It uses existing data from published books, journals, or online portals.
• It is generally less expensive and easier than primary data collection.

Steps in Data Collection for Practical Research

• Define Objectives and Research Questions: Clearly outline research goals and specific questions.
• Select Data Collection Methods: Choose appropriate methods based on research objectives and the target population.
• Common methods include surveys, interviews, observations, experiments, and document analysis.
• Design Data Collection Instruments: Develop or adapt instruments like questionnaires or guides.
• Ensure instruments are valid, reliable, and appropriate.
• Pilot Test Instruments: Conduct a pilot test to identify and address potential problems before full-scale collection.
• Recruit Participants or Select Sample: Identify the population and determine the sampling method.
• Obtain Informed Consent: If involving human subjects, obtain informed consent, providing study information and rights.
• Collect Data: Implement procedures systematically to minimize bias and error.
• Monitor Data Quality: Verify completeness, accuracy, and reliability throughout the process.
• Manage Data: Organize data systematically for analysis, ensuring security, confidentiality, and integrity.
• Document Data Collection Procedures: Keep detailed records, including dates, times, locations, and deviations.
• Review and Analyze Data: Use appropriate statistical or qualitative techniques and interpret findings.
• Report Findings: Present analysis clearly, following the report structure and discussing relevance.

How to Gather Data in Research

• Define Objectives: Clarify research goals and needed information.
• Select Methods: Choose suitable techniques like surveys, interviews, or observations.
• Design Instruments: Create valid tools such as questionnaires or interview guides.
• Pilot Test: Validate instruments with a small group to address any issues.
• Recruit Participants: Decide who will provide data and how they will be approached.
• Obtain Consent: Ensure informed consent from participants.
• Collect Data: Implement methods consistently and systematically.
• Monitor Quality: Verify data accuracy and completeness.
• Manage Data: Organize and secure data for analysis.
• Document Procedures: Keep detailed records of data collection.
• Review and Analyze: Apply appropriate techniques to analyze data.
• Report Findings: Present results clearly, emphasizing their relevance to research objectives.
• Following these steps enables effective data gathering for research purposes.