Finding, Collecting and Organising Data

Question 1

What is the difference between primary data and secondary data?

Answer 1

Primary: first-hand data gathered by researcher themself

Secondary: data collected by someone else earlier

Question 2

How are the hypotheses for quantitative research structured?

Answer 2

• Questions ask about the relationship between the variables that the investigator wants to know.
• Widely used in social science research and in survey studies in particular.

Question 3

What are quantitative assumptions?

Answer 3

• Predictions made by the researcher about the expected relationship between variables.
• Observed estimates of population values based on data obtained from surveys

Question 4

What is a ‘pilot study’?

Answer 4

• Preliminary smaller-scale study that helps researchers to test and develop research methodologies before the actual major study.

Question 5

What is sampling used for?

Answer 5

• To have valid results from anu research study since it is practically impossible to study an entire population

Question 6

Name the two types of sampling:

Answer 6

• Probability sampling
• Non-probability sampling

Question 7

Define the three types of probability sampling:

Answer 7

1. Stratified sampling:
   - Splitting population into different categories and then choosing units at random from different categories
2. Cluster sampling:
   - Researcher divides population into groups called “clusters”. A random sample of clusters will then be selected from the population.
   - Researcher provides a summary of the data from the clusters sampled.
3. Simple random sampling:
   - Each item in the population has an equal chance and probability of being selected in the survey (important in quantitative data analysis)

Question 8

Name and define the three types of non-probability:

Answer 8

1. Deliberate sampling:
   - Researcher chooses sample based on their knowledge of the study and the population.
   - Participants are chosen based on intent of the sample (used in qualitative analysis.
2. Snowball sampling:
   - Research participants recruit other participants for a test or study.
   - Used where prospective participants are difficult to locate.
3. Convenience sampling:
   - Individuals are sampled purely because they are convenient sources of data for researchers (also referred to as ‘accidental samples’)

Question 9

What is deliberate sampling also known as?

Answer 9

• Purposive sampling

Question 10

What is convenience sampling also known as?

Answer 10

• Accidental samples

Question 11

What does ethics refer to in data analysis?

Answer 11

Characterised as the principles of conduct that govern a person or a community and the moral duty and obligations to which we must comply.

Question 12

What entails good research practice?

Answer 12

• Researcher thinking through all potential risks and ethical concerns before embarking on any data collection or analysis.

Question 13

What are good ethics?

Answer 13

• Researchers not breaching the privacy of the participants.