7.1 Introduction to Data Collection Methods

Question 1

Data Collection

Answer 1

• If used for research, information must be objective (free from personal bias, attitudes and beliefs) and systematic (uniform, consistent, standard).

Question 2

Data Collection Fidelity

Answer 2

• Ensure that everyone in the data collection process collects data from subjects in a way that is uniform, consistent, and standardized

Question 3

Collection Fidelity

Answer 3

• Requires defining both a measurable concept (conceptual definition) and an operational definition (how to measure it)

Example

• What is the difference between caring and curiosity in nursing students just beginning their nursing courses versus those nearing the end of their studies.

Conceptual Definition - Perception for caring or curiosity for peers
Operational Definition - Caring attribute scale

Question 4

Measurement Selection

Answer 4

• Select a data collection method
• Decide if measurement scales are reliable (consistency/constancy of the measuring tool) and valid (measuring what the tool purports (claims) to measure).

Question 5

Secondary Data

Answer 5

• Either collecting their own data or use secondary data from other studies