Data Collection and Processing5th Chapter

Meaning and Importance of DataResearch begins with a problem statement or a question. In order to obtain solution to the problem or answer to the question, collection of data is very essential. The gathering of data may range from a simple observation at one location to worldwide survey.The method selected will largely determined how data are collected. Questionnaires, standardized tests and observation forms are the most important forms of data collection

ContdData may be defined as the facts presented to the researcher from the studys environment data serves as the basis of analysis.

Types of DataOnce the researcher has decided the research design; the next job is to data collection. For data to be useful. Our observations need to be organized so that we can get some patterns and come to logical conclusion.Statistical investigation requires systematic collection of data, so that all relevant groups are represented in the data.

ContdStatistical data can be classified into two categories, primary and secondary

Primary data:- primary data is one which is collected by the investigator himself for the purpose of a specific inquiry or study. Such data is original in character and is generated by surveys conducted by individuals or research institutions.

Secondary DataWhen an investigator used the data which has already been collected by others, such data is called secondary data. This data is primary data for the agency that collects it and becomes secondary data for someone else who uses this data for his own purposes. the secondary data can be obtained from journals, reports, government publications, publication of professional and research organizations and so on.

is the data that have been already collected by and readily available from other sources. Such data are cheaper and more quickly obtainable than the primary data and also may be available when primary data can not be obtained at all.Advantages of Secondary dataIt is economical. It saves efforts and expenses.It is time saving.It helps to make primary data collection more specific since with the help of secondary data, we are able to make out what are the gaps and deficiencies and what additional information needs to be collected.It helps to improve the understanding of the problem.It provides a basis for comparison for the data that is collected by the researcher.

Evaluation of Secondary DataAvailability- It has to be seen that the kind of data you want is available or not. If it is not available then you have to go for primary data.Relevance-(the relation of something) It should be meeting the requirements of the problem. For this we have two criterion:-Units of measurement should be the same.Concepts used must be same and currency of data should not be outdated.

Contd...Accuracy- In order to find how accurate the data is, the following points must be considered: -Specification and methodology used;Margin of error should be examined;The dependability of the source must be seen.Sufficiency- Adequate data should be available.