Group 6

Methods of Data Collection, Instruments and Advantages & Disadvantages.

Methods of Data Collection include the following:-

1. Surveys
2. Focus Group
3. In-depth Interviews
4. Sampling
5. Participant and Non-Participant Observation

1. Surveys
A survey is a broad investigation of a problem that allows the researcher to make
a general conclusion about the problem. It is a research technique in which
information is gathered from a sample of people by using an instrument such as a
Questionnaire.
A questionnaire is a list of items/questions to seek answers and record responses.
The responses may be filled by the respondent. Questions may be open-ended
(unlimited as it invites free responses and comments) or close- ended (alternative
answers provided).
Advantages:
1. Cost effective as now there are online surveys for example Google Forms or
mobile surveys.
2. Information is collected in a standardised way.
3. They are relatively easy to analyse.
4. Simple and quick for the respondents to complete.
5. They can be used for sensitive topics which respondents may feel insecure or
uncomfortable to reveal to the interviewer about.
Disadvantages:
1. Limited responses may be received to explore issues in depth.
2. Unreliable or biased responses may be received.
3. Samplers may be unwilling to answer questions.

2. Focus Groups
Also referred to as an ‘organised discussion’ seeks information in the form of
personal experience, opinions and feelings. It is based on the interaction between
a small group of selected individuals. Each member is chosen for particular
characteristics associated with the main aim being to stimulate discussion
between members. The role of the researcher is to guide the discussion but not
getting involved in it. The session may be recorded manually or mechanically.

Advantages:
1. Low cost to initiate.
2. Rapid data collection.
3. Opportunity to clarify responses through probes.
4. Generates fresh, new ideas.

Disadvantages:
1. Moderately time consuming to assemble groups
2. Lack of confidentiality.
3. Produces limited quantitative data.
4. Requires trained facilitators.
3. In-depth Interviews
An in-depth interview is more of a conversational exchange between the
researcher and selected person/s. This is a qualitative method of data collection
where oral histories can be taken in this way. An instrument used is an interview
schedule to guide the exchange. This is a list of questions, often given to the
respondent in advance to prepare for the interview. It allows recording of the
responses. The questions are usually open-ended answers to “how?” and “why?”
to stimulate discussion. The information is recorded as personal notes or
transcripts of recordings.
Advantages:
1. They provide much more detailed information than what is available through
other data collection methods such as surveys.
2. It provides a more relaxed atmosphere to collect information as opposed to
filling out a survey.
3. Due to direct contact, they can explain what is important to them and
immediately correct from any possible misinterpretations of a situation that you
may have developed.

Disadvantages:
1. Can be time intensive to conduct interviews, transcribe them and analyse
results.
2. Prone to self-representation bias.
3. Interviewer must be appropriately trained in interviewing techniques and
strategies.

4. Sampling
Sampling refers to the process of selecting a number of individuals for a study in
such a way that the individuals represent the larger group from which they were
selected. Types of sampling include:
1. Probability Sampling: The strongest and most desirable type of sampling is
random sampling where every member of the population has the same chance of
being chosen for the sample.
2. Non- Probability Sampling: Also referred to as purposive sampling, this method
chooses the sample according to particular characteristics. Method of enquiry
such as focus groups and interviews deliberately choose samples with particular
features.
3. Target Population: This is the entire group in which a researcher is interested in
and is a well-defined group.

Advantages:
1. Low cost because of the same proportion of a population.
2. Less time consuming to sample and analyse.
3. Suitable for carrying out different surveys.

Disadvantages:
1. Chances of bias responses.
2. Identification of all members of the population may be difficult.

5. Participant & Non- Participant Observation

Participant Observation lets the researcher participate in the activity being
observed, allows natural behaviours and opinions to occur.
Advantages:
1. Validity: as it produces rich qualitative data.
2. Insight: because it allows the researcher to gain empathy through personal
experience.
3. Flexibility: since it allows for an open mind.
Disadvantages:
1. The researcher as a participant can make it difficult to record observations.
2. Participants may feel that the researcher may betray the confidentiality of the
group and observations could have ethical implications.
3. Lack of objectivity by becoming a member and participating very closely.

Non- Participant Observation

Non- Participant Observation allows the researcher to be detached from the
group or phenomenon being observed. Open observation can be useful in the
same situations.
Advantages:
1. Objectivity & Fairness can be maintained as the observer gives a separated and
unbiased view.
2. Command respect and cooperation as every member of the group gives the
researcher playing an impartial role a special status and cooperates with his
study.
3. More willingness of the respondents.

Disadvantages:
1. Subjectivity: The observer doesn’t clarify about certain events or activities. He
cannot clear his doubts by asking various questions to members, therefore he has
to simply understand and interpret what he sees. This lack of understanding may
make some findings biased.
2. Inadequate observation as the observer can only observe events that take
place in front of him.
3. Inconvenience to the respondents since group members will feel
uncomfortable when they know that their behaviour is being critically analysed by
an outsider.