The Importance Of Using Mixed Methods Used For Data Collection

4. The key methods of collecting primary data (1.1). Justify the choice and application of data collection methods and research instruments to explore an area under investigation (2.3). Evaluate their relative strengths and weaknesses (2.4)

(2005) which explain that the exploration and description of case take place through detailed, in-depth data collection methods which multiple sources of data collection method in order to acquire information that are rich in context .Tessier (20120 supported that combination of data collection methods should be used in qualitative study to improve quality of data

This study will employ ethnographic research methods for data collection and it will be comprised of:

The research topic is selected, the testable research question is developed, research on the topic is found, the literature review is completed, and a decision is made on the research design. Now, one of the most important steps in the research process to accomplish is the collection of data. Notwithstanding the research project and whether the method of research is whether qualitative or quantitative, data must be collected. Data collection is essential whether the method of choice is a mail survey, a telephone survey, an interview, an experiment, field research, or secondary data analysis. Data collection is an important aspect of any research study. Inaccurate data can impact the results of a study and ultimately lead to invalid results. During the data collection step, a significant amount of time, energy and attention are required. In order to ensure the data collection process is valid and successful, one should adhere to the four steps involved: (1) the construction of a collection data form which is used to organize all data that is collected; (2) the designation of the coding strategy used to represent data on a data collection form; (3) the collection of the actual data; and (4) entry into the data collection form (Salkind, 2012).

The methodology was described with the data collection method. Quantitative and qualitative questionnaire which consisted of closed questions with a choice of fixed answers and free text to enhance qualitative data were sent out in the form of mailshot, followed by telephone call to non-respondents and it was repeated for more wider sample results to gain more evidence to reduce bias (Parahoo, 2006).

The research methods used were based on social research methods. (Walter, 2006). The methods used where a quantitative and qualitative research approach to gathered data and analyse the findings. In addition, using observation, conducting survey, an interview, past lectures and tutorials material, research and access of media guided this

Qualitative method is using open-ended questioning, non-statistical research techniques, or value-based observations. In this research, three main methodologies are adopted as focus group, distributing questionnaires and conducting personal interviews simultaneously. Methods are all appropriate and contributed to a comprehensive research. The reason is that aim of this research is to acquire an in-depth understanding of

A specific subset of recycled aggregates is recycled concrete aggregates (RCA) where the masonry content is limited to not more than five per cent. The performance characteristics of RCA are better than RA and consequently there are fewer restrictions on the use of RCA in concrete (BS 8500-2)

There are a number of methods of collecting data, some of them are – questionnaire, surveys, checklists, interviews, observations, focus group etc (Cordray, 1986; Einhorn and Hogarth, 1986).

This study used a quantitative methodology of data collecting to answer the research questions. The specific research questions studied included the following:

In general, there are several methods for data collection and the different data collection methods provided its own advantages and disadvantages (Sekaran 2003, p. 223). For carrying out the data collection, the appropriate methods should be applied. In the research, the data collection could be done through the interview, for example, face-to-face and telephone interview. To collect the data by using interview technique, the questionnaire is commonly employed as the instrument for gathering data, the questionnaire could be able to distribute by mail or electronic mail. In addition, the data collection could be conducted by observation of individuals with or without audio or video recording. Before choosing the methods for data collection the expertise of the researcher, the degree of accuracy required, time and resources must be taken into consideration. Thus,

This proposed research work was a qualitative research in its very nature of data collection and analysis. It has covered the empirical type of research methodology as for data collection the researcher had to visit the spot and talk to the stakeholders directly. Besides, from the point of authenticity and nature of data collection it can be categorized as the ethnographic research, as well.

Data Collection is a vital aspect of any type of research study. Erroneous data collection can impact the results of a study and ultimately lead to invalid results. Data collection methods for impact evaluation vary along a scale. At the one end of this scale are quantitative methods and at the other end of the scale are Qualitative methods for data collection. Choosing a particular data collection method will depend on the accuracy of information they will yield and the practical considerations, such as, the need for personnel, time, equipment and other facilities, in relation to what is available

Saunders, Lewis and Thornhill (2012, p.127) described the research philosophy as overarching term relating to the development of knowledge and nature of that knowledge. In order to understand the research philosophies and approaches Saunders, Lewis and Thornhill (2012) used the analogy of an onion to model the different stages of decision making required to develop the best choice for a research strategy (Figure 2). These layers were; Philosophies, Approaches, Strategies, Choices, Time horizons and finally techniques and procedures which includes data collection and data analysis.

This section will start with a comparison of three possible methodologies for data collection: ethnography, survey (or interview) and real time experience tracking. And then sampling and data collection methods will be examined followed by a description of data analysis.