Collection of Data
Definition -
Data collection is defined as the procedure of collecting, measuring and analyzing accurate insights
for research using standard validated techniques. A researcher can evaluate their hypothesis on the
basis of collected data. In most cases, data collection is the primary and most important step for
research, irrespective of the field of research. The approach of data collection is different for different
fields of study, depending on the required information.
Data is a tool which helps in reaching a sound conclusion by providing information therefore. For statistical
investigation, collection of data is the first and foremost.
. Sources of Data:
Primary Source
Secondary Sources
Published sources
Un-published sources
. Primary Data:Data originally collected in the process of investigation are known as primary data.
This is original form of data which are collected for the first time.It is collected directly from its
source of origin.
Methods of collecting primary data –
There are three basic ways of collecting data:
. Personal interview OR Direct Personal Investigation.
. Mailing (questionnaire surveys).
. Telephone interviews.
. Indirect verbal investigation.
. Information from local sources.
. Enumerator method.
Secondary data It refers to collection of data by some agency, which already collected the data
and processed. The data thus collected is called secondary data.
Point of difference between Primary and Secondary data -
. Accuracy,
. Originality,
. Cost,
. Need of modification
Sources of secondary data –
Secondary Data: Using existing data generated by large government Institutions, healthcare facilities etc.
as part of organizational record keeping. The data is then extracted from more varied datafiles.
Published sources:
. Govt. publication.
. semi-Govt. Publication.
. Reports of committees & commissions.
. Private publications e.g., Journals and News papers research institute, publication
of trade association.
. International publications.
Unpublished Sources -
The statistical data needn’t always be published. There are various sources of unpublished
statistical material such as the records maintained by private firms, business enterprises,
scholars, research workers, etc. They may not like to release their data to any outside agency.
Other source : web-site –
Pilot Survey: Before sending the questionnaire to the information. It should be pretested. As a result of its
short comings if any,can be removed. Such pretesting named as pilot survey