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Introduction To Data Collection

Data collection is a systematic process crucial for research accuracy and validity, involving two main types: primary data, which is collected directly for specific purposes, and secondary data, which is pre-existing information gathered for different reasons. Primary data offers tailored, up-to-date insights but can be time-consuming and costly, while secondary data is quicker and cheaper to access but may not perfectly fit research needs. Understanding these differences aids researchers in selecting appropriate data, balancing resources, and ensuring valid findings.

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26 views2 pages

Introduction To Data Collection

Data collection is a systematic process crucial for research accuracy and validity, involving two main types: primary data, which is collected directly for specific purposes, and secondary data, which is pre-existing information gathered for different reasons. Primary data offers tailored, up-to-date insights but can be time-consuming and costly, while secondary data is quicker and cheaper to access but may not perfectly fit research needs. Understanding these differences aids researchers in selecting appropriate data, balancing resources, and ensuring valid findings.

Uploaded by

lordoboh18
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© © All Rights Reserved
We take content rights seriously. If you suspect this is your content, claim it here.
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Download as PDF, TXT or read online on Scribd

3.

5 Introduction to Data Collection

Data collection is the process of systematically gathering information for a specific


research purpose. It's essential because the accuracy and validity of your research
findings depend directly on the quality of the data you collect.

There are two main types of data a researcher can collect:

1. Primary Data

• Definition: Data collected directly by the researcher for a specific purpose.


• Examples: Interviews, surveys, direct observation, experiments, focus groups.
• Advantages:
o Tailored to your exact research objectives.
o Up-to-date and specific.
• Disadvantages:
o Time-consuming and often expensive.

Example: If you're studying solar panel efficiency, and you collect output data
from panels placed at different angles — that’s primary data.

2. Secondary Data

• Definition: Data that already exists, collected by someone else for a different
purpose.
• Examples: Government reports, published research, organizational records,
existing datasets.
• Advantages:
o Quick to access and cost-effective.
• Disadvantages:
o May not exactly match your research needs.
o Might be outdated or biased.

Example: Using a national weather database to study rainfall trends.

Why is this important?

Understanding the difference between primary and secondary data helps you:
• Choose the right data for your research goal.
• Balance time, cost, and reliability.
• Ensure your findings are valid and applicable.

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