The researchers gather new data for primary research. The research classifies as primary when the researcher collects information on a certain topic for the first time. Surveys, interviews, and observation are common ways of gathering data.
On the other hand, secondary research uses previously gathered data through primary research. Books, magazines, trade journals, and other media majorly serve as secondary data sources. Moreover, the researcher does not gather primary data in this case.
As all primary studies entail gathering and analyzing secondary data during the literature review stage, it is vital to remember that primary research also involves secondary research. However, the key distinction between primary and secondary research is whether or not any researcher has undertaken the research previously.
Primary and secondary research each have pros and cons. Primary data is more time-consuming and expensive, even though it is need-specific and high-quality. Contrarily, secondary research is inexpensive, and the data collection is simple, but there is a chance that the information will be obsolete or unsuitable for one’s needs. Therefore, one must first assess these two options’ requirements, sources, expenses, etc., before selecting one.
Some common data collection methods:
10. Surveys
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Surveys play a prominent role in the research method. It helps collect a vast amount of real-time data and helps the research process. It is done cheaply and is usually faster than any other method. A researcher can conduct surveys in both quantitative and qualitative methods. The researcher usually prefers quantitative surveys over qualitative ones as they provide numerical outputs and accurate data.
Surveys are mainly used in the business to know the demand for a product in the market. It also helps to forecast the production based on the research results.
Questionnaires and interviews are two of the most common types of surveys. While interviews are conducted in person to reflect on feelings and experiences and explore issues with a greater emphasis, researchers use questionnaires to acquire information quickly.
11. Case Studies
A common technique for qualitative analysis is the case study method, which entails thorough observation of a social unit and focuses on the in-depth study. The case study emphasizes the detailed examination of a smaller set of circumstances and their interactions. Finding the elements that collectively account for the behavior patterns of the provided unit is the goal of the case study method. In this method of research methodology, the researcher considers different cases, and the proper one for the research is selected. Case studies help to develop an idea of the research and help in the foundation of the research. One considers various facts and theories from the case studies that help to form proper reviews about the research topic. Researchers can make the topic general or specific according to the literature reviews from the studies. The researcher can make an appropriate understanding of the research from the case study. Also, we have focus groups and research interviews to understand the types of research methods in a well-defined manner. Various methods can follow structured and unstructured methods.Tips to Consider While Selecting a Research Methodology Type
- A clear objective should be in mind before beginning any research, as a good research question will be precise, applicable, and valuable. This indicates that you can fully address the issue and base judgments thereon.
- For the study to be reliable, the researcher must ensure proper representation of the relevant population. You must create inclusive surveys and questionnaires to ensure proper representation.
- Your interview questions should gather the necessary data and subtly address your research questions. Building rapport with the subjects is essential to accomplish this.
- Another consideration is the time you have available. If there are time restrictions, consider methods like convenience or random sampling and tools that enable data collection in a few days. In-person interviews and observations are options for data collection if more time is available.
Advantages of Using Different Types of Research Methodology
- These various methodologies help attain the aim of the research, which is effectively analyzing the subject data. They provide verification and fact-checking, which is vital in a critical evaluation. It also presents different perspectives to view a matter.
- Surveys are quantitative methods that help obtain numerical statistics regarding research. With the help of numerical surveys, researchers can skip elaborate theses and achieve the necessary results without much hassle.
- Qualitative methods, including case studies, help to gain insight into the study. The researcher can directly delve deeper into the subject and study the behavioral pattern.
- The different methods help validate the research and improve its reliability. It also helps generalize the analysis for the majority of the audience.