Types of Data Flashcards
What is primary data?
Data collected directly from the researcher, first-hand
What is secondary data?
Data collected by someone else for purposes other than the current study
Give examples of primary data
- Experiments
- Questionnaires
- Interviews
Give examples of secondary data
- Books
- Statistics
What is a strength of primary data?
Researcher has control over data so data collection can be designed so it fits the aims of the study
What is a limitation of primary data?
It’s a lengthy and expensive process. e.g. designing a study and recruiting participants takes time.
What are strengths of secondary data?
- It’s simpler and cheaper to access someone else’s data as less time and equipment is needed
- Data may have been subjected to statistical testing and so it’s known whether it’s significant
What is a limitation of secondary data?
Data may not fit exactly the needs of the study
What is qualitative data?
Information in words that can’t be counted
What is quantitative data?
Information presented in numerical form, may represent how much, how long or how many there are of something
What is a strength of qualitative data?
Provides rich and detailed information about people’s experiences. This provide insight into complex human thoughts and behaviour
What is a limitation of qualitative data?
It’s complexity makes it more difficult to analyse data and such conclusions
What is a strength of quantitative data?
Data is easy to analyse so comparisons and conclusions are easily made
What is a limitation of quantitative data?
Data may oversimply reality. e.g. closed question may force people to tick answers that don’t represent their feelings. So, conclusions may be meaningless
