Data Collection Methods and Measurement of Variables
The stage of data collection is known as a crucial phase of the overall paradigm of research work. Effective measures of data collection help researcher to align the available information to the overall evolution of the research objectives. The feature of the data collection methods and measurement of variables can be characterized by two aspects of qualitative and quantitative means. It is immensely crucial for the researcher to adopt the suitable data collection method to avoid the feature of biasedness in the research study.
There are some methods which can be used by the researchers for data collection and measurement of variables. All these methods of data collection are categorized into primary and secondary methods. The feature of the primary data collection method can be observed in the form of quantitative and qualitative data. The particular technique of quantitative data collection come up with the consideration of mathematical calculations to assess the response 1. On the other hand, the technique of qualitative data collection is used to make inferences about the characteristics or the attributes. Secondary data collection method is known as the method which considers the information which firstly published in different books, newspapers, journals, etc. Researcher utilizes these sources to attain the desired information referring to specific research questions.
Proper measurement of variables also plays a crucial role to attain the error-free research outcomes. When it comes to measurement of the variables that it is necessary to understand that it is impossible to measure all the variables on the one specific level. The measurement of variables depends on the specific consideration of the variables. Nominal, ordinal, interval and the ratio are known as the commonly used levels of measurement of variables. It is crucial for the researcher to adopt the particular level of measurement according to the requirement of the application of variable.
References
Saunders M. Research Methods for Business Students. Pearson Education; 2003. https://books.google.com.pk/books?id=oXYWwI21IoEC.
