types of data

• Quantitative data

  • data that is expressed numerically
  • can involve words and feelings as long as answers can be counted
• Qualititative Data

  • data that is expressed in a non-numerical way e.g. words
  • can be turned into a numerical format
• Quantitative Data

  Strength:

  • Data is relatively simple to analyse
  • can be converted into averages then graphs and charts
  • therefore comparisons between groups can be easily made.

  Weakness:

  • lacks detail of the feelings and opinions behind a specific behaviour meaning we don’t learn as much
  • little information is obtained about thoughts or abilities
  • so doesnt reflect how complex things are in the real world
• Qualitative data

  Strength:

  • Data tends to be more rich in detail, so that researchers can understand the feelings and opinions behind a specific behaviour
  • more insight- participant is free to express thoughts and feelings
  • increases validity

  Weakness:

  • Data is difficult to analyse
  • may be hard to summarise material and draw conclusions
  • may be hard to summarise statistically
  • this means conclusions may be based on researchers opinion
• Primary Data:

  •  first hand information
  • collected for the purpose of the research being carried out
  • obtained by researcher
  • data matches aim of study
• Secondary Data:

  • second hand data from sources like other studies or government statistics
  • existed before the researcher set out to conduct investigation
  • collected by someone else for a different set of research aims
• Primary data

  Strengths:

  • more useful as it suits aims of research specifically
  • authentic- comes first hand

  Weakness:

  • More time and effort to collect
  • researcher must design and carry out a study rather than using readily available secondary data
  • slows process down and more expensive
• Secondary data

  Strengths:

  • convenient to use because data is easy to acess
  • data has already been checked and collected
  • involves little effort and cheaper

  Weakness

  • May not match researchers needs or aim- limited usefulness
  • may come from a poorly designed study- decreases validity