All researchers, at some stage in their project, need to decide what specific method and instrument to employ so that they can collect the data required to answer their research question or hypothesis. The choice, and the key decisions leading to it, are usually written up as part of a research methodology or research design chapter. In practice, students often choose a method and/or instrument they are already familiar with, or which they feel will be ‘easy to use’. In our experience, students favour the use of surveys, specifically questionnaires, and prefer to use online survey websites such as Survey Monkey to conduct the research. When asked the reason they chose this specific method (survey) and instrument (online, written questionnaire) they tend to be unable to provide an answer. If, for example, a student replied they had chosen this method because they wanted to collect quantitative data from 15 to 25 year-olds about the usability of the Amazon website, then method and instrument might be appropriate. However, if they wanted to gather data about the opinions of pensioners towards equity-release products it might be inappropriate. A possible rationale for the unsuitability of the latter approach is that the nature of the data is sensitive, so older people are less like to use or trust online survey instruments Here are some criteria you should consider when choosing an appropriate method:
All research studies are designed with the primary purpose of addressing research questions, or testing research hypotheses, which produces credible results. Effective design commences with recognising that your study, or fieldwork, is shaped by your worldview, which, in turn, influences the methodologies, strategies and methods you employ for data collection. Thesis Upgrade’s booklet, Designing Your Study And Fieldwork, is available as a downloadable PDF from our shop. The booklet illustrates the effect your worldview has on how you investigate a particular phenomenon and the approach you subsequently adopt. It emphasises the importance of deciding on an appropriate research methodology, selecting a suitable research strategy and choosing a relevant data collection method. What is the importance of data collection in research study?Accurate data collection is necessary to make informed business decisions, ensure quality assurance, and keep research integrity. During data collection, the researchers must identify the data types, the sources of data, and what methods are being used.
How do you select an appropriate method for data collection for research?These factors are; the research goal, the scope of the study, sample size, type of data, time and user-friendliness to the subjects. Other factors are research approach, safety and security of a researcher, the need for triangulation and theoretical framework.
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