9.1.1 - Types of data

Question 1

Define ‘qualitative data’.

Answer 1

Non-numerical language-based data collected through interviews, open questions and content analysis

Question 2

Define ‘quantitative data’.

Answer 2

Numerical data that can be statistically analysed

Question 3

Define ‘primary data’.

Answer 3

Data that is collected by a researcher from first-hand sources, using methods like surveys, interviews or experiments

Question 4

What are the 2 advantages of primary data?

Answer 4

Increased reliability - the researcher has control over the methodology, control variables and data collection

Increased validity - operationalised variables (IV/DV with units)

Question 5

What are the 2 disadvantages of primary data?

Answer 5

Low internal validity - results are based on the subjective interpretation of the researcher

Lower sample size due to recruitment of ppts - decreased population validity and generalisability of the limited data collected

Question 6

Define ‘secondary data’.

Answer 6

Research data that has previously been gathered and can be accessed by other researchers for peer-review

Question 7

What are the 2 advantages of secondary data?

Answer 7

Increased internal validity - rich, insightful data from a range of sources

Increased credibility - published work has already been peer-reviewed by experts in the field

Question 8

What are the 2 disadvantages of secondary data?

Answer 8

Subjectivity when analysing results may exist, causing researcher bias

Not time-relevant - could involve studies from a long time ago