kinds of data Flashcards
qualitative data
expressed in words and other non-numerical forms
quantitative data
can be counted, usually given as numbers
primary data
information that has been obtained first-hand by the researcher for the purpose of a research project, directly from participants
secondary data
information that has already been collected by someone else and pre-dates the current research project
meta-analysis
the process of combining results from a number of studies on a particular topic to provide an overall view
qualitative data- strengths
more richness of detail than quantitative data. greater external validity, provides researcher wit more meaningful insight.
qualitative data- weaknesses
- difficult to analyse. can’t be summarised statistically, patterns and comparisons within/between data hard to identify.
- researcher bias. conclusions rely on subjective interpretations.
quantitative data- strengths
- simple to analyse. comparisons between groups easily drawn.
- more objective. less researcher bias.
quantitative data- weaknesses
- narrower scope and meaning than qualitative data.
- lower external validity.
primary data- strengths.
obtained specifically for purpose of particular investigation. questionnaires and interviews can be designed to target info researcher requires.
primary data- weaknesses
time-consuming and requires more effort. experiments require planning, preparation and resources.
secondary data- strengths
- inexpensive and easily accessed. minimal effort.
- researcher may find that desired information already exists so no need for primary data collection.
secondary data- weaknesses
- may be substantial variation in quality and accuracy of data. may be out-dated/incomplete.
- content may not specifically target researcher’s objectives.
