CHAPTER -2

COLLECTION OF DATA

1.  Define Data

Data refers to Information in raw or unorganized form such as alphabets, numbers, symbols that represent, conditions ideas or objects.

2.  Explain the sources of data

Statistical data can be obtained from two sources:

1. Primary data:refers to data collected by the enumerator for the first time by conducting an enquiry or investigation.

There are three methods to collect primary data:

a)  Personal interviews:  The investigator conducts face to face interview with the respondent.

Merits:

The response rate is very high.

It allows the use of all types of questions.

It allows clarification of unclear questions.

Demerits:

It is most expensive and consumes much time.

There is a possibility of influencing the respondents.

b)  Mailing questionnaire:  Under this method a set of questions is sent to each individual by mail with a request to complete and send it before a given date.

Merits:

It is least expensive & best for sensitive questions.

It can reach remote areas.

No influence on respondents.

Demerits:

Illiterates cannot use.

Response time is long.

No clarification can be given to unclear questions.

c)  Telephone Interviews: The investigator asks questions over the telephone.

Merits:

Cheaper than personal interviews and consumes less time.

It enables the investigator to clarify the questions.

Demerits:

It requires people to have telephones.

People may not respond properly.

Reactions cannot be watched.

2.  Secondary data, i.e., second –hand data refers to the data which are already collected and processed by some other person or agency.

They are obtained from:

a) Published sources such as

Government reports, documents, Newspapers, journals, magazines, books and websites.

b)Unpublished sources: Diaries of eminent personalities and unpublished research findings.

3.  Explain the features of a questionnaire.  Or

What are the points that should be kept in mind while preparing a questionnaire?

A questionnaire is a set questions used in a survey to collect information from respondents.

Features / Points:

a)  The questionnaire should not be too long and should be as minimum as possible.

b)  The questionnaire should start from general questions and proceed to more specific ones to help the respondents feel comfortable.

c)  The questions should be clear and precise.

d)  The questions should not be unclear.

e)  Questions beginning with double negatives should be avoided.

f)  The question should not give a clue to the respondent on how to answer.

g)  The question should not indicate alternatives to the answer.