Research Methods Y1 - Kinds of Data Flashcards
Define qualitative data.
Data that is expressed in words and non-numerical (although qualitative data may be converted to numbers for the purposes of analysis).
Define quantitative data.
Data that can be counted, usually given as numbers.
Define primary data.
Information that has been obtained first-hand by the researcher for the purposes of a research project. In psychology, such data is often gathered directly from participants as part of an experiment, self-report, or observation.
Define secondary data.
Information that has already been collected by someone else and so pre-dates the current research project. In psychology, such data might include the work of other psychologists or government statistics.
Define meta-analysis.
Refers to the process of combining results from a number of studies on a particular topic to provide an overall view. This may involve a qualitative review of conclusions and/or a quantitative analysis of the results producing an effect size.
How is qualitative data collected?
Through methods like an interview, a transcript from a diary, or notes from an unstructured observation. These focus on the interpretation of language, such as feelings or opinions.
How is quantitative data collected?
By gathering numerical data, such as the number of words a person is able to recall in a memory experiment. This data can be analyzed statistically and easily converted into graphs and charts.
Which type of data is best: qualitative or quantitative?
Neither type is best. It depends upon the purpose and aims of the research. Often, researchers collecting quantitative data may interview participants to gain insight into their experience, combining qualitative and quantitative methods.
What is one evaluation point for qualitative data?
Point: Qualitative data offers much more richness of detail than quantitative data.
Evidence: It has much broader scope, giving participants/respondents more freedom to develop their thoughts, feelings, and opinions on a subject.
Explanation: This leads to greater external validity because it provides the researcher with a meaningful insight into the participants’ worldview.
Link: This supports the use of qualitative data, especially when a deeper understanding of subjective experiences is required.
What is another evaluation point for qualitative data?
Point: Qualitative data can be difficult to analyze.
Evidence: Its richness means that patterns and comparisons may be hard to summarize statistically, making conclusions subjective.
Explanation: This increases the risk of researcher bias and may reduce reliability if the data reflects what the researcher expects to find.
Link: Thus, although qualitative data offers depth, its lack of objectivity may limit its application in certain contexts.
What is one evaluation point for quantitative data?
Point: Quantitative data is easy to analyze, making comparisons straightforward.
Evidence: Numerical data can be converted into statistical formats, such as graphs, and results are less open to bias.
Explanation: This objectivity increases reliability and replicability, making it more likely to represent ‘real-life’ accurately.
Link: Therefore, quantitative data is especially useful for studies requiring statistical validity and clear conclusions.
What is one evaluation point for secondary data?
Point: Secondary data is inexpensive and readily available.
Evidence: Data such as government statistics can save time and resources, as they are often comprehensive.
Explanation: However, such data may lack specificity or be out of date, reducing its applicability to the current research.
Link: This highlights that while secondary data is convenient, researchers must critically evaluate its quality and relevance.
