Methods of Data Collection

DATA:- Collection of related

observations are called data.
1)Primary Data—Those data which
are collected by the researcher for
the first time for its own use in
research are called primary data.
2)Secondary Data—Those data
which are collected by someone
else and has already passed
through the statistical process are
called secondary data.
Primary data can be collected
by using a no. of methods, such
as:
 Observation method
 Interview method
 Questionnaire method
 Collection of data through schedules
 Store audit
 Pantry audit
 Projective technique……etc.
 OBSERVATION METHOD

 Observation means general perception

of things happening around us, but;
when it serves research process it is
symmetrically planned, recorded and
subjected to checks and controls of
validity and reliability.
 In observation method the required
information is sought by the
investigator’s own direct observation
without asking from the respondent.
Merits of observation method

 Subjective bias is eliminated.

 It provides the current information

and are not influenced by past
experiences and future intentions.

 Independent of respondent’s
willingness to respond or not.
Demerits of observation
method

 It is expensive method.

 It provides limited information.

 Interference of unforeseen factors.

Observations may be:

 Structured
 Unstructured
 Participant
 Non participant
 Controlled
 Uncontrolled
Interview Method

The interview method of collecting

data involves presentation of oral-
verbal stimuli and reply in terms of
oral-verbal responses.
2) Personal Interview – The
interviewer asks questions in a
face to face contact to the other
person. It may be:
a) Direct Interview
b) Indirect Interview
Merits of Interview

 More information can be obtained.

 Interviewer by his own skills can
overcome the resistance.
 Flexible Method.
 Samples can be controlled.
 Interviewer can collect supplementary
information.
Demerits of Interview Method

 Expensive Method.
 Interviewer may be biased.
 Method is time-consuming.
 Interviewing may introduce systematic
errors.
 Proper rapport with respondents is also
a difficulty.