Data Collection Methods

Data Collection Methods

Before understanding the practice of data collection, its essential to review its application. Data collection is a critical process in any research being conducted. It involves the systematic gathering, grouping, and analyzing information based on the various variables of interest; it enables the provision of facts about an inevitable question. Researchers use this method to try to relate specific aspects of real-life elements (LoBiondo-Wood & Haber, 2017). For example, carrying out the effects of technology on effective healthcare delivery will involve the collection of data from the hospital through interaction with physicians and patients. Thus, data collection enables the support of investigator’s claims. There are numerous data collection methods, the most common method being the use of interviews. In this post, there will be a review of scenarios for using this method and the various limitations accompanying the technique.

Interviews

This is a standard data collection method; it involves having an essential conversation where there is one party asking questions concerning a specific topic and another person providing the answers. This type of data collection is divided into three categories; they include unstructured, semi-structured, and structured interviews. Unstructured interviews; this is the type of interviews where the questions are not structured i.e., the questions flow in a usual formless manner. Structured interviews; these are where the questions are structured, and the interview follows a strict interview protocol. Semi-structured involve characteristics of structured and unstructured interviews (De la Croix, Barrett & Stenfors, 2018).

Scenarios to use Interviews

Interviews can be used under dignified circumstances.  If an investigator wants to collect the various attitude, feelings, and emotions about a certain topic. In the course of interviewing an individual, there is the asking of questions, and an investigator can get the attitude reaction. This can either be mad or excited about the topic in mind (Bertrand¹ & Bourdeau¹, 2010).

Additionally, if an investigator is seeking to get first-hand information and pinpoint accuracy, then the interview would be the best-suited data collection method. Through the application of this method, information gathered is straight from the source and is not altered in any way. Moreover, the interviewee can answer more detailed responses, thus giving more clarity.

Pitfalls/Limitations of Using interviews

Through the application of interviews, the information gained can be biased; this is because individuals are entitled to different opinions. Some of these opinions may be very biased. The setting up of the interviews, transcribing, and analysis of data may be time-consuming. Additionally, due to the time consumption of meetings, there is a recommendation to reduce the sample size, which in turn affects the results (Miller, 2003).

In conclusion, interviews are personally the best method for data collection. Despite the various limitations, interviews aid in the collection of primary data, which is the most critical element in a study. Ensuring accuracy in interviews can be provided through the right sample size and having brief and precise interviews.

References

Bertrand¹, C., & Bourdeau¹, L. (2010). Research interviews by Skype: A new data collection method. In Paper Presented at the Proceedings of the 9th European Conference on Research Methodology for Business and Management Studies, Madrid, Spain.

De la Croix, A., Barrett, A., & Stenfors, T. (2018). How to…do research interviews in different ways. The Clinical Teacher, 15(6), 451-456. doi: 10.1111/tct.12953

LoBiondo-Wood, G., & Haber, J. (2017). Nursing research. St. Louis, Missouri: Elsevier.

Miller, K. (2003). Conducting cognitive interviews to understand question-response limitations. American Journal of Health Behavior, 27(1), S264-S272.