Data Flashcards
What is quantitative data?
Numerical data
What is qualitative data?
Data obtained from unstructured interviews/ observations (non-numerical)
Name the strengths of quantitative data.
- Allows for a broader study
- Can allow for greater objectivity and accuracy of results
- The research can be replicated - high reliability
Name the weaknesses of quantitative data.
- Results are limited as results are only numerical
- Lacks ecological validity
- Pre set answers will not necessarily reflect people’s true feelings
Name the strengths of qualitative data.
Provides depth and detail
Creates openness
Simulates people’s individual experiences
Attempts for avoid pre judgement
Name the weaknesses of qualitative data.
Usually fewer people studied - validity is compromised
Less easy to generalise
Difficult to make comparisons
Open to investigator effects
What is primary data?
Data collected by a researcher from the participants in the investigation: first-hand
What is secondary data?
Data that has already been gathered by someone else, other than the researcher
What is a meta-analysis?
A form on research that uses secondary data - gathers data from a large number of studies investigating the same thing
What are the strengths of primary data?
Can be gathered to fit the aims of the investigation
More accurate to what the investigator intends to measure
What are the weaknesses of primary data?
It requires time and effort from the researcher
It requires considerate planning, preparations and resources
What are the strengths of secondary data?
Inexpensive and easily accessible
Requires minimal effort
What are the weaknesses of secondary data?
Substantial variation in the quality and accuracy
The content of the data may not exactly match the researchers purpose
What are the strengths of meta-analysis?
Allows a researcher to view data with much more confidence
Results can be more easily generalised across larger populations
What are the limitations of meta-analysis?
Prone to publication bias
Often have biased conclusions as researchers may leave out negative results