Types of Data

• Quantitative data

  data expressed in numbers (how much, how long etc.)
• Qualitative data


  data expressed in many words and written descriptions of thoughts, feelings and opinions e.g. interview transcripts
• Qualitative data can be converted into quantitative to make it easier to analyse
• Primary data

  original data collected by the researcher for the study being conducted at the time - could be an experiment, interview or observation
• Secondary data

  data that already exists but is used by a researcher, in a different way, for their purpose i.e. exam grades
• Strengths of qualitative data:

  • in depth answers with detail and personal opinions/feelings
  • subjective to each person
  • researchers can gain an insight into the person
• Limitations of qualitative data:

  • takes longer to collect
  • more bias
  • you cannot generalise the data to everyone
• Strengths of quantitative data:

  • faster and easier
  • data is easier to process
  • questions are easier to understand for participants
• Limitations of quantitative data:

  • no detail in answers
  • interviewers don't get an insight into the person
• Strengths of primary data:

  • it is current
  • it fits the study the researcher is carrying out
  • you can gather as much data as you want/need
  • it is specific to the study
• Limitations of primary data:

  • you have to use your own time and resources
  • it takes longer
• Strengths of secondary data:

  • you don't have to use up lots of time to conduct gather your own research
  • it is easier for the researcher
  • it is faster
  • usually comes from a widely approved body
• Limitations of secondary data:

  • the data might not be specific to your study
  • the data is not current and findings could have changed since that study was conducted