"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."
The means by which data is gathered, such as surveys, interviews, observations, or secondary data sources.
Sampling methods: This involves selecting a small group of individuals from a larger population for data collection.
Qualitative versus quantitative methods: This entails the different methods of collecting data, with qualitative methods focusing on in-depth understanding of a small sample, while quantitative methods focus on collecting numerical data from a larger sample.
Ethical considerations in data collection: This involves ensuring that the data collection process respects the participants' rights, privacy, and confidentiality.
Data collection tools: These are the instruments used in collecting data, such as surveys, questionnaires, focus groups, and interviews.
Reliability and validity of data: This involves ensuring that the data collected is accurate and consistent.
Data analysis methods: This entails techniques for interpreting and making sense of data collected, such as statistical analysis and qualitative analysis.
Data visualization: This involves presenting data in a clear and easily understandable way, using graphs, charts, and tables.
Mixed methods research: This entails the use of both qualitative and quantitative methods for data collection and analysis, allowing for a more comprehensive understanding of the research question.
Sampling bias: This involves ensuring that the sample selected for data collection is representative of the larger population.
Data triangulation: This involves the use of multiple methods or sources of data to confirm or verify findings.
Participant observation: This is a method where the researcher takes part in the participant's daily activities to understand their behavior and culture.
Cross-sectional and longitudinal studies: These are research designs that involve collecting data at one point in time (cross-sectional study) or over a period (longitudinal study) to observe changes over time.
Randomization: This is a strategy used to ensure that participants in a study are assigned to different groups in a random manner, to eliminate bias.
Pilot testing: This involves testing data collection tools and methods on a small sample before conducting the main study.
Data storage and management: This involves ensuring that the data collected is stored securely, backed up, and accessed only by authorized persons.
Surveys: Surveys involve a systematic collection of information from respondents using standardized questionnaires that are either self-administered or interviewer-administered.
Interviews: Interviews involve one-on-one conversations between the researcher and the participants, either in person or through phone or video conferencing.
Focus groups: Focus groups involve group interviews where participants are invited to discuss a specific topic or issue.
Observations: Observations involve systematically watching and recording the behavior of individuals, groups, or events.
Case studies: Case studies involve the in-depth investigation of a particular individual case, organization, or group in order to gather detailed information about their experiences.
Experiments: Experiments involve the manipulation of one or more variables to measure the effect they have on an outcome.
Content analysis: Content analysis involves the systematic examination of written, visual, or auditory material to assess its content and meaning.
Archival data analysis: This involves the use of data from records, reports or documents that have already been collected and stored in archives or databases.
Action research: Action research is a collaborative approach to inquiry that involves participants in research design, implementation, and evaluation, with the aim of improving their own situation.
Ethnography: Ethnography involves the study of a particular culture or social group through observation, interviews, and participation in their activities.
Participatory research: Participatory research involves collaboration between researchers and community members to identify research needs and design and implement studies together.
Secondary data analysis: Involves analyzing data that has already been collected and published by other researchers to answer new research questions.
Triangulation: This involves the use of multiple methods to collect data in order to increase the validity and reliability of the findings.
Case record reviews: This involves the systematic examination of case records (e.g., medical records or child welfare files) for research purposes.
Historical research: This involves the retrospective examination of past events or situations to gain insight into present-day issues.
Delphi method: A technique used to gather opinions and forecasts from a panel of experts, who are asked to provide their views on a particular topic through a series of surveys.
Interactive methods: Interactive methods involve the elicitation of data through group exercises, visual methods, and games.
Online data collection: This involves the use of online surveys or web-based data collection methods to collect data from respondents.
Mobile data collection: This involves the use of mobile devices like smartphones and tablets to input and transmit data.
Video analysis: This involves the examination of video recordings of events, interviews, or interactions to analyze social phenomena.
Photovoice: Photovoice involves the use of photography to document and present the experiences and perspectives of participants.
Peer review: This involves the evaluation of research by experts in the same field to ensure that the research meets accepted standards of rigor and validity.
Expert panel: Similar to the Delphi method, expert panels are used in scientific research to elicit feedback or information from a group of specialists in a particular field.
Case-based reasoning: This involves the use of previous cases or scenarios to aid in the decision-making process.
Mixed-methods research: This involves the use of both qualitative and quantitative research methods in a single study.
"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."