Research Focuses On The Mode And Type Of Data Collection (Essay Sample)

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Data collection forms a crucial task for any research study. The collection of inaccurate data can affect the results of a study, rendering it invalid. Data collection method may be either qualitative or quantitative. Quantitative data collection methods use random sampling and structured data gathering instruments that accommodate a wide range of experiences into preset response categories. The results are easy to review, contrast, and generalize. The quantitative method focuses on figures and frequencies as opposed meaning and experience. They are associated with scientific and experimental approaches and are avoided in in-depth descriptions (Simonton, 2003, p. 628). The method is widely used in disciplines such as economics, biology, and social sciences. Once a large sample of data is collected, it is subjected to verification, validation, and documenting before carrying out the analysis (Simonton, 2003, p. 626-627).
Qualitative methods provide research data, which is intended at describing meaning instead of making statistical suggestions. The method is used in various academic disciplines ranging from social sciences to market research. It is aimed at understanding human conducts and the motives that govern such behaviors. The method investigates the reasons of decision-making. The data collection methods used in qualitative methods is triads, un-interrupted observation, ethnographic participation, and in-depth interviews (Munyua & Stilwell, 2010). Qualitative researchers seek to unveil the meaning that participants associate to their behavior, the way they interpret situations, and the general standpoint on certain issues. Conventionally, qualitative methods yield results on exact cases studied; broad conclusions are only suggestions. The most common interpretive technique analysis of qualitative method is observer impression: observers examine the data, interpret it by developing a notion, and report the thought in a prearranged manner.
The Differences between Quantitative and Qualitative Method of Research
The vital differences that define qualitative and quantitative methods are the results each produce; quantitative method produces definite figures while qualitative method deals with descriptive data. The purposes of the data analysis also determine which of the two methods are used in a research study. Some researchers may prefer to combine both methods, mixed method evaluation, in order to produce thorough understanding of the research (Munyua & Stilwell, 2010, p. 6). The data used in qualitative method may include video, photos, voice, and other non-text data. Proponents of qualitative methods claim that the method is detailed, sensitive, distinct, and relative while quantitative advocates claim the data are solid, credible, thorough, and scientific (Simonton, 2003, p. 628). Qualitative data seeks to explain when, who, and what while quantitative data deals with how and why of the analysis.
In collecting and analyzing data, both quantitative and qualitative methods differ remarkably. Quantitative techniques use surveys, questionnaires, pre/post-tests, existing databases, and statistical analysis; qualitative techniques employ observations, interviews, focus group, and non-statistical methods to collect and analyze data (Munyua & Stilwell, 2010, p. 7). The information used in quantitative method involves collecting data that can be ascertained mathematically; it is gathered from through surveys from a large group of participants who are chosen randomly. Secondary data may also be used; for instance, government statistics and census data may be analyzed through statistical methods to answer the what, who, and when issues. Qualitative method collects data through observation, focus groups, or interviews; it may also collect data from written records and case studies (Munyua & Stilwell, 2010, p. 7). The emphases are not ascertaining the number of people who act in a given way; the emphasis is on explaining why people act the way they do. Qualitative method usually involves a smaller number of participants compared to quantitative method. This method is relatively easy to analyze; it is highly consistent, reliable, and economical than quantitative method.
How Qualitative and Quantitative Methods Overlap
Both qualitative and quantitative methods have weaknesses in certain areas and researchers tend to apply methods that are strong in each method to get the best results. Most researchers suggest the use of both methods to complement each other rather than be rivals. The mixing of the different methods owing to the strength and weaknesses found on a single method enhances the scientific results generated (Munyua & Stilwell, 2010, p. 7). Triangulation is one broad term that defines the combination of methodologies in studying similar phenomenon.
Research studies that use people interviews and conduct o...