Data Collection

Dr. Devkant Kala

UPES Dehradun
 Data Collection

 Data Collection is a term used to describe a

process of preparing an collecting data.

 Systematic gathering of data for a particular

purpose form various sources, that has been
systematically observed, recorded and
organized.

 Data are the basic inputs to any decision

making process in business.
Dr. Devkant Kala, UPES Dehradun
 Data, Information & Knowledge

Human Information
Data Interpretation

Human Knowledge
Information Use

Dr. Devkant Kala, UPES Dehradun

Knowledge Hierarchy

Enriching through experience,

training and education

Transforming through personal

application, values and beliefs

Adding meaning, understanding,

relevance and purpose

Source: Bender and Fish (2000).

Dr. Devkant Kala, UPES Dehradun

 Purpose of Data Collection

 To obtain information.

 To keep on record.

 To make decision about important issues.

 To pass information to others.

Dr. Devkant Kala, UPES Dehradun

 Which type of Data?

 Most researches use some combination of

secondary and primary data. How about
your research?

 Usually researchers refer to secondary

data first. Why?

Dr. Devkant Kala, UPES Dehradun

 Secondary Data

Previously Collected data by someone else.

They include both qualitative and

quantitative data and they can be used in
both descriptive and exploratory research.

Dr. Devkant Kala, UPES Dehradun

 Sources of Secondary Data
 Organization’s record
 Organization’s website
 Reports
 Books
 Journals
 Newspapers
 Tape, video recordings, CD
 Pictures
 Films and TV programs
Dr. Devkant Kala, UPES Dehradun
Advantages of Secondary Data
1. Less expensive and time saving.

2. Longitudinal and comparative studies became

possible.

3. Permanent and available.

4. Wide Geographical Area.

5. Clarification of Research Questions.

6. Leading to find primary data.

Dr. Devkant Kala, UPES Dehradun
Disadvantages of Secondary Data
1. May be collected for a purpose that does not
match your need.

2. Access may be difficult or costly when data is

collected for commercial reason.

3. No real control for data quality.

4. Incomplete information

5. Not updated Data.

Dr. Devkant Kala, UPES Dehradun
 Evaluating Secondary Data
Sources
Review the secondary data with caution:
1. They will enable you to answer your research
question and meet your objectives. (Validity)
2. Reliability and Credibility
3. Clearly defined methodology
4. Adequate Coverage and measured variables.
5. Their benefits greater than their cost.
6. You will be allowed access to the data.
7. Updated Data
Dr. Devkant Kala, UPES Dehradun
 Primary Data

First Hand Data; Collected by researcher

for specific purpose.

 Observation
 Interviews
 Questionnaire

Dr. Devkant Kala, UPES Dehradun

Observation
Observation may be defined as systematic
viewing, coupled with consideration of seen
phenomenon.

 Structured and Unstructured

 Participant and Non-participant

Dr. Devkant Kala, UPES Dehradun

Interview
A purposeful discussion between two or more
people. It can help you to gather valid and reliable
data that are relevant to your research question
and objectives.

 Structured interview
 Unstructured interview
 Semi-structured interview
 Telephonic Interview
 Group Interview

Dr. Devkant Kala, UPES Dehradun