PR1 L#2 (Finding Answers Through Data Collection)

• Observation - is the systematic acquisition of information or data through first-hand or primary sources, commonly using the basic senses such as seeing hearing, touching, smelling and tasting.
• Observation - it is also very critical in analyzing data and can serve as an aid for validation.
• Interview - is a process of collecting data through a series of asking questions and soliciting for answers.
• Interviews - are the most common research tool in qualitative research methods and techniques, specifically in data collection or data gathering procedures.
• Types of Interviews:

  • Structured
  • Semi-structure
  • Unstructured
• Structured interviews use interview questionnaires, where the interviewer just ask the preset questions and the interviewee answers the same.
• Unstructured interviews use interview guides or probing questions as start-up questions for probing and further exchange of ideas.
• New questions can arise in the process of unstructured interviews, depending on the issues cropping up in the process.
• Semi-structured interviews combine structured and free-flowing probing interviews.
• Advantages - Allow for in-depth data gathering and analysis through the use of systematic observation and probing inquiry.
• Advantages - Allow for the interaction of the researcher with the respondents and the environment
• Advantages - Discover more information and data not found in surveys or questionnaires.
• Disadvantages - Availability of respondent.
• Disadvantages - Can be time consuming, from the conduct of each interview up to the transcription or processing of interview results.
• Disadvantages - Difficulty in establishing the reliability of the respondents' responses.
• Jacob and Furgerson (2012) laid down important tips in conducting interviews.
• Come earlier than the appointed schedule.
• Prepare before the interview.
• Prepare for clear and concise interview questions or probes.
• For first timers, it is good to practice asking the questions with friends to simulate the outcome of the interview.
• During the interview, the interviewer needs to first introduce himself or herself.
• Always orient first the respondent on the nature and purpose of the interview.
• Throw the first, simple and light question.
• Be sensitive to the tones, gestures, facial expressions or body movements of the respondents.
•  In qualitative research, data processing is a set of steps and procedures to sort, classify, organize and present data and analyze them into some meaningful, discernible results or findings.
• TRUE OR FALSE?

  True - Conclusions are proper in qualitative research since the objective is not to generalize.
• TRUE OR FALSE?

  True - Conclusions belong to generalizations or experimental research and quantitative research designs.
• Categorical questions - are answerable by yes or no or any categorical answer.
• Open-ended questions - are answerable by further explanation.
• The 5Ws-1H technique - It stands for Who, What, Where, When, Why, and How.