RCE2601 LESSON 4 DATA COLLECTION AND ANALYSIS

1. Data collection

Data collection and data analysis are integral parts of the research process. Data
collection explains how data will be collected for research. It involves gathering
information or data related to the research question or objectives. This process
typically involves systematic and structured approaches to ensure the collection of
accurate and reliable data. There are various methods and techniques available for
data collection that include:

Surveys and questionnaires: These involve administering a set of standardised

questions to a sample of participants to gather their responses.

Interviews: Conducting one-on-one or group interviews to gather qualitative data

through in-depth conversations with participants.

Observations: Systematically observing and recording behaviours, events, or

phenomena in their natural settings.

Experiments: Implementing controlled procedures to test hypotheses and gather

data under controlled conditions.

Document analysis: Reviewing and analysing existing documents, such as official

records, reports, or archival materials.

The choice of data collection method depends on the research question, the nature
of data needed, and the available resources.

Data collection provides answers to the following these generic questions:

 Which particular attributes/characteristics of the units of analysis will be

investigated?
 Which dynamics could hinder the researcher’s access to the vital sources of
data?
 What could be done to overcome any possible difficulties concerning access
to data sources?
 Which specific approaches, methods, instruments and/or techniques will be
utilised to collect the required data?
 2. Data Analysis

Data analysis describes the approaches and techniques that will be used to analyse
the data collected for a study. It involves transforming, organising, and interpreting
collected data to draw meaningful conclusions and make informed decisions. It is the
process of examining, categorising, summarising, and analysing the data to identify
patterns, relationships, trends, and insights.

Data analysis provides answers to the following generic questions:

 How will the research data be recorded and stored?

 How will data be verified and be evaluated for accuracy and for the
completeness of the research?
 Which specific approaches, methods and techniques will be used to code,
summarise and further analyse the data that was collected?
 Which specific approaches, methods and techniques will be used to prepare
the data for analysis?
 Why were the specific approaches, methods or techniques chosen?

Data analysis can be conducted using various techniques that include:

Quantitative analysis: This involves using statistical methods to analyse numerical

data, such as descriptive statistics, correlations, regression analysis, or inferential
statistics.

Qualitative analysis: This involves analysing textual or narrative data through

techniques such as thematic analysis, content analysis, or grounded theory.

Mixed methods analysis: In cases where both quantitative and qualitative data are
collected, researchers can use mixed methods approaches to analyse and integrate
the different types of data.

Data visualisation: Presenting data in visual formats, such as charts, graphs, or

diagrams, to facilitate understanding and interpretation.

The choice of data analysis technique depends on the research design, the type of
data collected, and the research objectives.
It is important to note that data collection and data analysis are iterative processes
that often influence each other. Researchers may need to revisit their data collection
methods or adjust their analysis techniques based on emerging findings or insights
during the analysis phase. Rigorous data collection and thoughtful data analysis
contribute to the validity and reliability of research findings and help researchers
address their research questions effectively.