MCO 22 : Q - STATE THE METHODS OF COLLECTING PRIMARY DATA.

Summary

This transcript explains two primary methods of collecting data: observation and questionnaires. The observation method involves the investigator observing a phenomenon without directly interacting with the subject, while the questionnaire method involves asking structured questions to respondents. The transcript discusses the advantages, such as accuracy and reliability in the questionnaire method, and the limitations of both methods, such as misinterpretations and sensitivity issues. Different questionnaire techniques, including personal interviews, mail, and telephone surveys, are also explored, with practical considerations and challenges highlighted for each approach.

Takeaways

• 😀 Observation method involves collecting data by directly observing a phenomenon without asking questions.
• 😀 In the observation method, both human observers and mechanical or electronic devices can be used to record data.
• 😀 The observation method may not yield accurate data, especially for psychological or personal information.
• 😀 The questionnaire method is more widely used and involves asking respondents questions to gather data.
• 😀 Personal interviews in the questionnaire method provide more accurate data due to face-to-face interaction and the ability to clarify doubts.
• 😀 Personal interviews can be time-consuming and costly, especially when dealing with a large number of respondents.
• 😀 The mail questionnaire method involves sending questions to respondents via postal mail or attaching them to products or publications.
• 😀 Mail questionnaires are useful for large geographical areas but can only be used with literate respondents.
• 😀 Telephone interviews are less expensive and allow for more flexibility, but they are limited by the number of questions and the availability of respondents.
• 😀 One limitation of the questionnaire method is the difficulty in collecting sensitive data, such as income or age, as people may be unwilling to share such details.
• 😀 Both the observation and questionnaire methods have their advantages and limitations, and the choice of method depends on the nature of the research and the respondents.

Q & A

What are the two primary methods of collecting primary data discussed in the script?

The two primary methods of collecting primary data discussed are the observation method and the questionnaire method.

How does the observation method work?

In the observation method, the investigator observes a phenomenon without interacting with the subjects. Data is recorded based on the observations of events or behaviors as they naturally occur.

What are some examples of mechanical or electronic devices used in the observation method?

Examples include punch cards, thumb impressions, and other electronic devices that track data, such as attendance records or time logs in corporate offices.

What are the advantages and limitations of the observation method?

The advantage of the observation method is its objectivity, as data is collected based on direct observation. However, limitations include the difficulty in obtaining accurate data, especially related to psychological or behavioral aspects, and potential errors if the observer has physical limitations.

What is the primary advantage of the questionnaire method over the observation method?

The primary advantage of the questionnaire method is its ability to gather more accurate and relevant data through direct questioning, which is especially useful for detailed or specific information.

What are the different ways in which the questionnaire method can be implemented?

The questionnaire method can be implemented through personal interviews, mail questionnaires, and telephone interviews.

What are the benefits and drawbacks of personal interviews in data collection?

Personal interviews provide accurate and reliable data since the interviewer can clarify doubts and cross-check responses. However, they are time-consuming and costly, especially with a large number of respondents.

How does the mail questionnaire method work, and what are its limitations?

In the mail questionnaire method, questions are sent to respondents via mail (either physical or electronic), and they respond by completing and returning the questionnaire. The main limitation is that it can only be used with literate individuals and may not be effective if respondents do not return the completed questionnaire.

Why is the telephone interview method considered less expensive than personal interviews?

Telephone interviews are less expensive because they do not require the interviewer and respondent to meet face-to-face, reducing travel and time costs. Additionally, phone plans often allow for unlimited calls, making it more affordable.

What challenges can arise when using the questionnaire method to collect sensitive data?

Sensitive data, such as income, age, or personal life details, can be difficult to collect as respondents may not feel comfortable sharing such information. This can lead to inaccurate or incomplete responses.