Chapter 2: Data Collection and Sampling

Factors to consider in selecting the Method to Collect Data

Research methodology is a scientific and logical technique that helps you decide on an appropriate research method to collect
data. When you start your research, the first question that hits your mind is “What type of research do I need to meet my
research objectives?” Selecting a research methodology is one of the most critical factors that can make or break your research
project.

 The type of Data. Your research methodology will decide whether you need qualitative or quantitative or both
methods. If you want to capture insights into a problem to develop ideas for a solution, you will use qualitative data.
You will use qualitative tools such as open-ended interviews to collect data from the target audience. However, if you
have any questions, quantitative tools such as surveys can be the best approach to achieve desired results.
 The time allotment to complete the study. The availability of time is another crucial factor that comes into play at the
time of deciding on research methodology. Some methods take relatively more time, whereas with others the data can
be collected in a comparatively shorter duration. If you need results within the research frame, you might consider
using tools and techniques that allow data collection in just a few days. For instance, random or convenience sampling
can be your preferred data collection technique. However, if your prescribed data collection period is relatively long,
you can organize in-person interviews with your samples.
 The Population under investigation. While considering a research methodology, the sample size is an important
consideration. How big does your sample size need to be to determine answers to research questions and meet
research objectives? Will you prefer surveying 50 or 1000 people. If you need a large sample size, you do not need
time-consuming methods such as face-to-face interviews.
 The Researcher’s Financial Capacity. Availability of funds for the research project determines to a large extent the
method to be used for the collection of data. When funds at the disposal of the researcher are very limited, he will
have to select a comparatively cheaper method which may not be as efficient and effective as some other costly
method. Finance, in fact, is a big constraint in practice and the researcher has to act within this limitation.

Methods of Data Collection

1. Interview Method or Direct Method
This is a person to person interaction between an interviewer and an interviewee. Tape of video recorded or written interviews
will help the researcher obtain exact information from the interviewee.
Advantages: Precise and consistent answers can be obtained by modifying or rephrasing the questions esp.to illiterate
respondents or to children under study.
Disadvantages: It is time, money, and effort consuming and it will be applicable only for small population, except when
conducting a census.
2. Questionnaire or Indirect Method
This is an alternative method for the interview method. Written respinses are obtained by distributing questionnares(a list of
questions intended