COLLECTION OF DATA

Data collection is a term used to describe a process of preparing and collecting data - for example as part of a process improvement or similar project. The purpose of data collection is to obtain information to keep on record, to make decisions about important issues, to pass information on to others. Primarily, data is collected to provide information regarding a specific topic.[1] Data collection usually takes place early on in an improvement project, and is often formalised through a data collection plan[2] which often contains the following activity. 1. Pre collection activity Agree goals, target data, definitions, methods 2. Collection data collection

3. Present Findings usually involves some form of sorting[3] analysis and/or presentation.
Prior to any data collection, pre-collection activity is one of the most crucial steps in the process. It is often discovered too late that the value of their interview information is discounted as a consequence of poor sampling of both questions and informants and poor elicitation techniques.[4]After pre-collection activity is fully completed, data collection in the field, whether by interviewing or other methods, can be carried out in a structured, systematic and scientific way. A formal data collection process is necessary as it ensures that data gathered is both defined and accurate and that subsequent decisions based on arguments embodied in the findings are valid.[5] The process provides both a baseline from which to measure from and in certain cases a target on what to improve. Types of data collection 1-By mail questionnaires 2-By personal interview.

Other main types of collection include census, sample survey, and administrative by-product and each with their respective advantages and disadvantages. A census refers to data collection about everyone or everything in a group or population and has advantages, such as accuracy and detail and disadvantages, such as cost and time. A sample survey is a data collection method that includes only part of the total population and has advantages, such as cost and time and disadvantages, such as accuracy and detail. Administrative by-product data is collected as a byproduct of an organizations day-to-day operations and has advantages, such as accuracy, time simplicity and disadvantages, such as no flexibility and lack of control.[6]

METHODS OF COLLECTING DATA

Examples of different data collection methods are given below. 1.Behavior Observation Checklist: a list of behaviors or actions among participants being observed. A tally is kept for each behavior or action observed. 2.Knowledge Tests: information about what a person already knows or has learned. 3.Opinion Surveys: an assessment of how a person or group feels about a particular issue. 4.Performance tests: testing the ability to perform or master a particular skill. 5.Delphi Technique: a method of survey research that requires surveying the same group of respondents repeatedly on the same issue in order to reach a consensus. 6.Q-sorts: a rank order procedure for sorting groups of objects. Participants sort cards that represent a particular topic into different piles that represent points along a continuum. 7.Self-Ratings: a method used by participants to rank their own performance, knowledge, or attitudes. 8.Questionnaire: a group of questions that people respond to verbally or in writing. 9.Time Series: measuring a single variable consistently over time, i.e. daily, weekly, monthly, annually. 10.Case Studies: experiences and characteristics of selected persons involved with a project. Individual Interviews: individuals responses, opinions, and views. Group Interviews: small groups responses, opinions, and views.

11.Wear and Tear: measuring the apparent wear or accumulation on physical objects, such as a display or exhibit. 12.Physical Evidence: residues or other physical by-products are observed. Panels, Hearings: opinions and ideas. 13.Records: information from records, files, or receipts. Logs, Journals: a persons behavior and reactions recorded as a narrative. 14.Simulations: a persons behavior in simulated settings. Advisory, Advocate Teams: ideas and viewpoints of selected persons. 15.Judicial Review: evidence about activities is weighed and assessed by a jury of professionals.Below are some issues to remember when choosing a data collection method