To conduct action research is crucial to determine the most appropriate

methods for data collection. Three data collection methods: interviewing,

observation, and surveys, will be analysed.

1. Interviewing
Knowledge of this method helps the researcher better understand the
context for an individual’s behaviour and decision-making rationale
(Seidman, 1998).

Interviews can be structured, semi-structured or unstructured. Focused

group and critical-incident interviews are two other techniques that can
be used to collect data (Arhar, Holly, & Kasten, 2001; Patton, 1987).
Tools such as questionnaires or attitude scales are used to collect the
information needed.

Two important aspects to be considered are the length of an interview

and the time between interviews. A 90-minute session could be
sufficiently long enough to collect an adequate amount of data, and
intervals of three days a week tend to work best because continuity of
content can be maintained (Patton, 1987; Seidman, 1998).

2. Observation
It is a method that allows individuals to collect information about others
by viewing their actions and behaviours in their natural surroundings.
Tools used to collect data may include writing field notes, making entries
into a log, or keeping a journal. Audiotapes and videotapes checklists,
and rating scales may be used in formal observation (Arhar, Holly, &
Kasten, 2001).

Direct observation implies the researcher observes interactions,

processes, or behaviours as they occur in reality, whereas the
researcher not only observes members of the community also
participate with them in their activities in participant observation.
Analysis has also been carried out on deciding covert or overt
observation.

Besides that, the observation length and time between observation

sessions are still a controversy. McClure (2002) stated that many
sociological and anthropological studies involve years of observation,
while program evaluators generally observe for shorter periods.

Undoubtedly, it will be determined by the participants and desired

results of a study.

3. Survey

A survey is used to gather information through a questionnaire. It is

important to know that a questionnaire to collect data can be used both
qualitative and quantitative research. Under this perspective, action
research may use questionnaires when it is impossible to interview
every participant (McClure, 2002)

A questionnaire consists of open- or closed-ended questions or items.

If closed-ended questions are used, Likert scale can be applied to
measure standard responses. Conversely, open-ended questions
provide more complete, comprehensive and meaningful data despite of
difficulty to analyse (Arhar, Holly, & Kasten, 2001; Patten, 1998).

Questionnaires validity and reliability, simultaneous administration,

distribution process and anonymity are criteria that make sure to collect
the data required in order to achieve the research objectives.