Types of Data

Types of Data

1. Quantitative data- numerical, e.g. measuring dependent variable, answers to closed questions

   • Easy to analyse but may not represent reality

2. Qualitative data- can't be directly counted, non-numerical, e.g. answers to open questions

   • Detailed and possibly unexpected information, but more difficult to draw conclusions

3. Primary data- collected by the researcher for a current study, involves design of study to collect data

   • Suits the needs of the study but is time consuming and expensive

4. Secondary data- using data collected from a previous study e.g. government statistics

   • Saves time and money, but may not fit exact needs of the study