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Chapter 7 Methods of Data Collection
Chapter 7 Methods of Data Collection
Introduction
The data collection methods used by researchers
need to be objective and systematic.
Objective:
The data must not be influenced by
anyone who collects the information.
Systematic:
The data must be collected in the same
way by everyone who is involved in the
collection procedure.
Operationlization:
Is the process of translating the concepts of
interest into a researcher to observable and
measurable phenomena.
Physiological.
Observational.
Interviews.
Questionnaires.
1. Objectivity.
2. Precision. (accuracy)
3. Sensitivity.
Disadvantages of using physiological
:data collection methods include
1. Some instruments may be quite expensive
to obtained.
2. Often require specialized knowledge and
training to be used accurately.
3. Just by using them, the variable of interest
may be changed.
4. The presence of some types of devices
might change the measurement.
Example: the presence of a heart rate monitoring device might
make some patients anxious and increase their heart rate.
5. Nearly all types of measuring devices
are affected in some way by the
environment.
6. There may not be a physiological way to
measure the variable of interest.
7. If the device does not really measure
the phenomenon of interest, the validity
of its use is suspect.
Observational Methods
Researcher open
Yes hidden some
Some
intervention
intervention
Researcher Researcher
No hidden no open no
intervention intervention
illiterate.
It can clarify misunderstood questions.
questions.
It allow for richer and more complex data
to be collected.
Using a combination of interview of
questionnaires to study a problem (multiple
measures) gives a more complete picture
that the use of just one measure.
1. Saving time.
2. Allows examination of trends over time.
3. Decreases problems of reactivity and
response set bias.
4. The researcher does not have to ask
individuals to participate in the study
(consent ).
Disadvantages of Records or
:available data
1. Institution are sometimes refuse to allow researchers to have
access to their records.
2. Individuals may be identified by records.
3. The researcher has access only to those records that have
survived.
4. If the records available are not representative of the possible
records, the researcher may have a problem with bias.
5. Records could be biased such as when studying
socioeconomic factors associated with the suicide rate. These
data are frequently underreported because of the stigma
attached to suicide.