Research is systematic investigations conducted to establish facts and figures that draw new conclusions. Therefore, data is the driving force of most researches, and getting the right data is important. Employing the appropriate data collection methods determines the success of any research. The methods of data collection include observation, interviews, focus groups, and administering questionnaires. The selection of the method is based on the type of information is intended to be collected. The common methods are highlighted below.
First, there is observation. It involves data collection through the human sense of sight. There is a reduced risk of bias since no questions are asked (Robson & McCartan, 2016). Observation is used in cases where behavior measurements and nonverbal communication are required to complete the research. Observation is used in observational designs where conclusions are made from comparing the focus groups.
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Secondly, there are interviews. Conducting interviews requires the researcher to be physically present at the location and ask questions. The method is widely used in social research. The researcher develops a list of questions that the respondents will answer. Interviews are used if a researcher needs to get detailed information and when the topic under study is complex and may confuse the respondents (McGrath et al., 2018). Interviews are suitable in the descriptive design the required detailed answers from the respondents.
The third method is focus groups. These are group interviews that involve individuals that have a common goal. The focus groups are used to supplement the individual data collections with collective element. Focus groups are used in combination with other methods. Focus groups are applied when there is a moderate number of respondents that require qualitative research. They are also favorable in case study designs that required research on a specific issue instead of a statistical study (Sacred Heart University, 2020).
The fourth method is questionnaires. Administering questionnaires involves gathering data through questions that require closed-ended answers. The questions must be prepared before the process starts, and they can be either printed questions or online forms to fill. Questionnaires are usually recommended where there is a large population of respondents. They are used in the sequential design, which allows one stage to be completed before moving on to the next.
In the current world, there have been major changes in which data is collected. Experiments can now be simulated, which ends up saving a lot of money. Surveys and questionnaires can now be conducted online, which haves a huge influence on how people respond to the questions. Selecting the type of data collection methods, the researcher should also consider the type of devices available for their impact on the quality of research.
References
McGrath, C., Palmgren, P. J., & Liljedahl, M. (2018). Twelve tips for conducting qualitative research interviews. Medical Teacher , 41 (9), 1002-1006. https://doi.org/10.1080/0142159x.2018.1497149
Robson, C., & McCartan, K. (2016). Real world research (4th ed.). John Wiley & Sons.
Sacred Heart University. (2020, August 27). Research guides: Organizing academic research papers: Types of research designs . SHU Library - Research Guides at Sacred Heart University. https://library.sacredheart.edu/c.php?g=29803&p=185902
