Data-collection techniques allow us to systematically collect information about our objects of study (people, objects, phenomena) and about the settings in which they occur.
In the collection of data we have to be systematic. If data are collected haphazardly, it will be difficult to answer our research questions in a conclusive way.
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Example: During a nutrition survey three different weighing scales were used in three villages. The researchers did not record which scales were used in which village. After completion of the survey it was discovered that the scales were not standardised and indicated different weights when weighing the same child. It was therefore impossible to conclude in which village malnutrition was most prevalent. |
Various data collection techniques can be used such as:
- Using available information
- Observing
- Interviewing (face-to-face)
- Administering written questionnaires
- Focus group discussions
- Projective techniques, mapping, scaling
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