Many
potential researchers are unsure where they can obtain data to begin their
research and analysis. We should first divide the different types of data into
two major classifications.
potential researchers are unsure where they can obtain data to begin their
research and analysis. We should first divide the different types of data into
two major classifications.
Primary
data
data
When
someone refers to “primary data” they are referring to data collected
by the researcher himself/herself. This is data that has never been gathered
before, whether in a particular way, or at a certain period of time.
Researchers tend to gather this type of data when what they want cannot be find
from outside sources. You can tailor your data questions and collection to fit
the need of your research questions.
someone refers to “primary data” they are referring to data collected
by the researcher himself/herself. This is data that has never been gathered
before, whether in a particular way, or at a certain period of time.
Researchers tend to gather this type of data when what they want cannot be find
from outside sources. You can tailor your data questions and collection to fit
the need of your research questions.
This
can be an extremely costly task and, if associated with a college or institute,
requires permission and authorization to collect such data. Issues of consent
and confidentiality are of extreme importance. Primary data actually follows
behind secondary data because you should use current information and data
before collecting more so you can be informed about what has already been
discovered.
can be an extremely costly task and, if associated with a college or institute,
requires permission and authorization to collect such data. Issues of consent
and confidentiality are of extreme importance. Primary data actually follows
behind secondary data because you should use current information and data
before collecting more so you can be informed about what has already been
discovered.
Secondary
data
data
If
the time or hassle of collecting your own data is too much, or the data
collection has already been done, secondary data may be more appropriate for
your research. This type of data typically comes from other studies done by
other institutions or organizations. There is no less validity with secondary
data, but you should be well informed about how it was collected.
the time or hassle of collecting your own data is too much, or the data
collection has already been done, secondary data may be more appropriate for
your research. This type of data typically comes from other studies done by
other institutions or organizations. There is no less validity with secondary
data, but you should be well informed about how it was collected.
