Essay On Data Collection

The data management process for a researcher consists of two parts; the data collection process and the analysis of the information gathered. The researcher must first begin by identifying the sources of data collection and determining which of these sources would be the most appropriate and reliable.
The various sources of data can either be primary or secondary. Primary data refers to raw, original data that was collected at the time of the event. Therefore, it allows the researcher to study the data up close. Secondary data on the other hand, offers an analysis on past data, it may interpret or further explain primary data, works containing analysis and discussion of past events are considered as sources of secondary data. Existing data is readily available hence; it is less time consuming and inexpensive. Whichever method the researcher decides to use, he/she must address the issues faced in data collection in the research report.
After the sources have been identified, the researcher must decide on the method of data collection. There is a range of data collection techniques, each having its merits and limitations. The researcher can either use one of these methods or a combination of them to increase the reliability and validity of the research findings. The choice of method would be largely based upon the resources and time available to the researcher, the type of research, feasibility of the data collection techniques, sample size, implications of response rates, etc.
The most popular data collection techniques include the survey method, giving out questionnaires, arranging focus group discussions, observations, using archival data, conducting interviews and other objectives tests like lab/field experiments. The person undertaking the research should conduct a pilot study before carrying it out on a large scale to discover the feasibility and sustainability of the entire research project. The scale of measurement to gauge the relationship between variables must be accurate and appropriate; otherwise the findings can be misleading and not generalizable. After the pre-testing has been carried out, any flaws in the research design can be corrected and revisions regarding study procedures can be made before the actual research takes place.
Data analysis begins after the data has been collected and collated in an organized manner. It requires the raw data to be simplified and arranged in a logical and systematic way, according to the rules relating to data collection. Through data analysis, the intended audience can be explained the outcomes of the research project. The researcher must clearly state the conclusion derived from the results and propose recommendations, if necessary. In most cases, research findings are analyzed using statistical tests such as regression, t-tests, chi-square, ANOVA, etc. Finally, the researcher must also be mindful about ethical considerations while conducting research.
Ethical issues related to data management process mostly arise in the data collection techniques. The most common forms of ethical dilemma in research are as follows; informed consent, seeking permission of individuals before making them a part of the research is very important. Their privacy must not be invaded and their anonymity must be maintained. Furthermore, the researcher should treat the individuals with utmost respect and guarantee them protection against both mental and physical harm.
Moreover, if the researcher seeks assistance from another organization or person, either in monetary terms or use another person’s work as a basis for his own, he/she must always credit the source and avoid plagiarism at all costs. Lastly, when reporting the research findings, the researcher should accurately communicate the results in the report; he/she must remain neutral throughout the course of the project.