Collection of Data
Data Collection, Sampling, and Analysis is the essential and earliest part of any research process, legal or otherwise.
For empirical or quantitative research, data must be collected and analyzed. Quantitative research involves measurements, usually of variables, because quantitative methods attach more importance to generalizing our sub-set findings to the larger set from which the subset was selected.
What is the primary purpose of data collection in empirical or quantitative research?
The primary purpose of data collection in empirical or quantitative research is to gather information for measurements, usually of variables. This is essential because quantitative methods emphasize generalizing findings from a subset to the larger set from which the subset was selected.
What are the two main types of data collection methods?
The two main types of data collection methods are the census and sampling methods.
Census Method
The Census method is used when the whole area or population is surveyed.
The collected information from all population units is usually called the census method. If the size of the units of the study is small, the census method is generally used to collect data.
However, in most cases, the census method is not practicable when an exhaustive and intensive study is undertaken, given the time factor and human and financial resource constraints.
When is the census method typically used?
The census method is used when the entire area or population is surveyed. It involves collecting information from all population units and is generally used when the size of the units of study is small.
Sampling Method
On the other hand, the sampling method is less expensive and less time-consuming.
Moreover, data collected from the questionnaire survey form the basis for analyzing issues and problems and drawing practical and theoretical conclusions.
Why might researchers opt for the sampling method over the census method?
The sampling method is often chosen over the census method because it is less expensive and less time-consuming.
What is the main difference between the census method and the sampling method in terms of data collection?
The main difference is that the census method involves collecting data from every unit in the entire population, while the sampling method involves collecting data from only a subset or a sample of the population.
Why might the census method not be practical in some research scenarios?
The census method might not be practical in some scenarios due to constraints related to time, human resources, and financial resources, especially when an exhaustive and intensive study is undertaken.
What forms the basis for analyzing issues and drawing conclusions in a questionnaire survey?
Data collected from the questionnaire survey form the basis for analyzing issues and problems and subsequently drawing practical and theoretical conclusions.