Data collection is a systematic process of gathering observations or measurements. Accurate data collecting is crucial to preserving the integrity of research, regardless of the subject of study or preferred method for defining data (quantitative, qualitative). Errors are less likely to occur when the right data gathering tools are used (whether they are brand-new ones, updated versions of them, or already available).
Among the effects of data collection done incorrectly, include the following –
- Erroneous conclusions that squander resources
- Decisions that compromise public policy
- Incapacity to correctly respond to research inquiries
- Bringing harm to participants who are humans or animals
- Deceiving other researchers into pursuing futile research avenues
- The study’s inability to be replicated and validated
When these study findings are used to support recommendations for decision, there is the potential to result in disproportionate harm, even if the degree of influence from flawed data collecting may vary by discipline and the type of investigation.
Before you begin collecting data, you need to consider:
- The aim of the research
- The type of data that you will collect
- The methods and procedures you will use to collect, store, and process the data