Collection of data is an important practice in every field to exercise any investigation. It helps in making decisions and learning about solutions and outcomes of any situation. Techniques Of Data Collection.
Thereby, it is significant to collect data accurately using different techniques of data collection to solve any issue and make clear assumptions regarding it.
Also, one should never associate the collection of data solely with statistics, instead, it is used in every field. For instance, in sociology, to reach any census one must find out a relevant method for data collection. After gathering data only any theory can be associated.
The methods for collecting data help a person in concluding any answer to a question. Once the data is collected, it is important to go through the process of data organization.
‘Data’ is the source for data collection methods and can be classified into two types i.e, ‘Primary data’ and ‘secondary data’. Each of the data is explained with their sub-classified methods as follows:
Techniques Of Data Collection.
Primary Data Collection Methods.
Primary data can also be called ‘raw data. Primary data is a form of information being extracted directly from its original source. Such data requires collection via the processes like observations, surveys, and experiments. Further, we can categorize the primary data collection into two types: Techniques Of Data Collection
1) Quantitative primary data collection methods
2) Qualitative primary data collection methods
Even if we have already discussed these methods in our previous articles separately, let us recall them in brief.
Quantitative primary data collection methods
- This collection method is based on arithmetical or mathematical calculations using methods like regression methods (mean, median, mode), close-ended questions, or correlation.
- Applicable in a short period.
- Comparatively cheaper method than qualitative primary data collection methods.
Qualitative Data Collection Methods
- No mathematical calculations are used.
- Includes methods like interviews, case studies, observations, questionnaires, etc. Some of them are mentioned in detail below:
- Observation Method: This method is used to study behavioral science or related subject and is subject to many checks and controls.
- Interview Method: Involves data collection in terms of verbal responses. The interview can be a personal interview ( interviewer asks questions face to face) or a telephonic interview(takes place over a telephone line). Techniques Of Data Collection
Questionnaire Method: A series of questions is provided to an individual which is to be answered by him in the desired formation with a definite order. Techniques Of Data Collection
Secondary Data Collection Methods.
Secondary data can not be designated raw data as we do not get it from its main source. Instead, it is the data being gathered by someone other than its actual writer or user. Secondary data is already available information that is analyzed by another person for their research. This type of data collection technique involves books, journals, newspapers, etc, as its main source. Further, secondary data can be categorized as published or unpublished data.
- Published data may comprise sources like public records, business documents, ancient historical writings, trade or technical journals, government letters, and publications.
Unpublished data, on other hand, involves data from diaries, personal letters, unpublished biographies, etc.
