"Data collection or data gathering is the process of gathering and measuring information on targeted variables in an established system, which then enables one to answer relevant questions and evaluate outcomes."
Focuses on the methods of gathering data, including both primary and secondary data sources.
Research design: This refers to the overall plan or strategy for conducting research, which includes the selection of research methods, analysis techniques, and data collection procedures.
Sampling: This refers to the process of selecting a representative subset of individuals or entities from a larger population for the purpose of data collection.
Survey research: This is a method of collecting information from a sample of individuals or entities, typically through the use of questionnaires or interviews.
Data sources: This refers to the various types of data that can be used in research, including primary (collected specifically for the purpose of research) and secondary (collected for other purposes) data.
Data quality: This refers to the accuracy, reliability, and validity of the data collected, which affects the overall quality and usefulness of the research findings.
Data collection techniques: This refers to the methods used for collecting data, such as surveys, interviews, focus groups, observation, and experiments.
Ethical considerations: This refers to the principles and guidelines that must be followed when collecting data, such as ensuring informed consent, confidentiality, and privacy.
Data analysis: This refers to the process of organizing, interpreting, and making sense of the data collected, using various statistical and analytic techniques.
Data visualization: This refers to the use of visual tools (e.g., charts, graphs, maps) to represent and communicate data in a clear and meaningful way.
Data management: This refers to the process of organizing, storing, and maintaining the data collected, which involves ensuring data security, confidentiality, and accessibility.
Mixed methods research: This is a research approach that combines both quantitative and qualitative methods of data collection and analysis.
Meta-analysis: This refers to a statistical technique used to combine and analyze the results of multiple studies on a particular research question.
Longitudinal research: This refers to research that is conducted over an extended period of time, often involving repeated measurements of the same variables.
Case study research: This is a research approach that focuses on in-depth analysis of a particular case or phenomenon, often using a combination of various data collection techniques.
Action research: This is a research approach that involves collaboration between researchers and practitioners to solve practical problems and improve organizational practices.
Surveys: This method involves the collection of data through written or verbal responses from a sample of participants, usually conducted through questionnaires.
Interviews: Interviews involve face-to-face or phone conversations with individuals, focusing on specific research questions to collect data.
Focus Groups: Focus groups involve a group of participants, usually six to ten, discussing specific topics or issues selected by the researcher.
Observational Research: This method involves observing and recording the behavior of people or things in natural settings, without manipulating the variables or environment.
Experimental Research: Experimental research involves the manipulation of variables in a controlled setting to confirm a causal relationship.
Case Studies: A research method that involves deep investigation of an individual, a group, an organization, or an event.
Content Analysis: This method involves the systematic analysis and interpretation of texts such as documents, social media posts, or news articles.
Secondary Data Collection: This approach involves the collection of existing data, such as published statistics, previous research data or reports, and government records.
Ethnographic Research: This method involves observing and analyzing the culture, daily life, and beliefs of a group of people or community.
Action Research: A research method that involves collaboration between researchers and practitioners to solve a specific problem, mainly focusing on improving the situation in a practical way.
Quantitative Descriptive Research: This method involves the collection of data through predetermined and structured surveys, focused on statistical analysis.
Monte Carlo Simulation: A simulation method that involves the use of a computer algorithm to generate thousands of possible outcomes, useful in risk analysis, forecasting, and decision-making.
"Data collection is a research component in all study fields, including physical and social sciences, humanities, and business."
"While methods vary by discipline, the emphasis on ensuring accurate and honest collection remains the same."
"The goal for all data collection is to capture evidence that allows data analysis to lead to the formulation of credible answers to the questions that have been posed."
"Regardless of the field of or preference for defining data (quantitative or qualitative), accurate data collection is essential to maintain research integrity."
"The selection of appropriate data collection instruments (existing, modified, or newly developed) and delineated instructions for their correct use reduce the likelihood of errors."