Chapter 9 : Selecting a method of data collection

Chapter 9 : Selecting a method of data collection

1. Differences in the methods of data collection in quantitative and qualitative research

2. Major approaches on information gathering

3. Collecting data using primary sources

   • Observation
     • Types of observation
       • Participant Observation
       • Non-participant Observation
     • Problems with using observation as a method of data collection
     • Situations in which observation can be made
       • Natural
       • Controlled
     • Recording Observations
       • Narrative Recording
       • Using Scales
       • Categorical Recording
       • Recording on electronic devices
   • The Interview
     • Unstructured Interviews
     • Structured Interviews
   • The Questionnaire
     • Ways of administering a questionnaire
       • The mailed questionnaire
       • Collective Administration
       • Administration in a public place
     • Choosing between an interview and a questionnaire
       • The nature of the investigation
       • The geographical distribution of the study population
       • The type of study population
     • Advantages of a questionnaire
       • It is less expensive
       • It offers greater anonymity
     • Disadvantages of a questionnaire
       • Application is limited
       • Response rate is low
       • There is a self selecting bias
       • Opportunity to clarify issues is lacking
       • Spontaneous responses are not allowed
       • Response to a question may be influenced
       • It is possible to consult others

4. Methos of collecting data in qualitative research

   • Unstructured Interviews
   • Participant Observation
   • Secondary sources