Chapter 9: Selecting a Method of Data Collection Flashcards
In Qualitative Studies
- information gathered through an unstructured and flexible format, describes in a descriptive and narrative way
- observation and interviews
In Quantitative Studies
- explain phenomena by collecting quantitative data, which are analyzed by mathematically methods
- numerical, statistical
In Mixed Methods
several methods
Use of both Primary and Secondary Data
triangulation or dual methodology
Data Collection using Primary Sources
- choice of method depends on purpose of the study, resources available
- method of data collection should correspond to the study population
- subjects should clearly understand the purpose of the study
3 Types of Primary Sources to Collect Data
- Observation
- Interview
- Questionnaire
Observation
- systematic and selective observing a phenomenon
- useful when interested in behavior
- 2 types: participant observation / non-participant observation
Situation in wich observation can be made
- natural vs controlled
- disguised vs non-disguised observation
- human vs mechanical observation
- direct vs indirect observation
- structures vs unstructured observation
Limitations of Observations
- Hawthorn effect (positive or negative)
- Bias
- Interpretation subjectivity
- Possibility of incomplete observation or recording
Interviews
- asking questions and gathering information about the participants
- types: structured / unstructured
Questionnaire
- set of questions on a form in order to collect statistical information
- clear and easy questions
- interaction style: respondents should feel as if someone is asking them
- sensitive questions should be prefaced with a statement explaining the relevance
Possible ways to administer a questionnaire
- collective administration
- online questionnaire
- administration in a public place
Questionnaire Advantages
- less expensive
- greater anonymity
Questionnaire Disadvantages
- limited application
- low response rate
- self-selecting bias
- lack of opportunity to clarify issues
- no opportunity for spontaneous responses
- response to a question might be influenced by the response to another question
Interview Advantages
- appropriate for complex situations
- collection of in-depth information
- information can be supplemented
- questions can be explained
Interview Disadvantages
- time consuming
- more expensive
- quality of data depends on quality of interaction
- quality may vary with different interviewers
- researcher’s bias
Types of Questions
- open-ended questions
- closed questions
Formulating effective Questions
- simple language
- no ambiguous questions
- no leading questions
- no questions based on presumptions
Constructing a Research Instrument in Quantitative Research
- ensure quality and validity of the results
- no special guidelines on how to construct an instrument
- questions should relate directly to the objectives of the study
Steps to Construct a Research Instrument
- define research question, objectives and hypothesis
- for each, list associated questions
- list information required for each question
- formulate questions
Important Aspects When Constructing a Research Tool
- personal and sensitive questions
- order: random or logical (from simple to complex)
- pre-testing the instrument
Methods of Data Collection in Qualitative Research
- In-depth Interviews
- Focus Group Interviews
- Narrative
- Oral Histories
- Observation
