Data Collection
Methods and approaches for gathering research data
Survey Research Methods
Systematic approaches to collecting data from respondents
Survey Types and Approaches
Survey research is one of the most common methods of data collection, providing a systematic way to gather information about attitudes, behaviors, opinions, and characteristics from a sample of individuals.
Types of Survey Research
Cross-sectional Surveys
- Single point in time data collection
- Snapshot of current conditions
- Cost-effective and quick to implement
- Cannot track changes over time
Longitudinal Surveys
- Repeated data collection over time
- Tracks changes in the same individuals
- More costly but provides temporal insights
- Can establish cause-effect relationships
Panel Surveys
- Same sample measured repeatedly
- Analyzes individual changes over time
- Allows for cohort effect analysis
- Subject to panel attrition
Cohort Studies
- Follows group with common characteristic
- Investigates factor influences over time
- Common in epidemiological research
- Can determine cause-effect relationships
Survey Data Collection Methods
Questionnaires
Written responses, anonymous participation, efficient data collection
Online Surveys
Electronic collection, wide reach, multimedia integration
Phone Surveys
Oral collection, follow-up questions, wider reach
Mail Surveys
Written collection, wide reach, longer processing time
Face-to-face Interviews
Oral collection, clarification possible, more costly