2.03 Data Collection

What is the primary purpose of data collection in scientific research?

• To create new data

• To gather information for analysis

• To delete unnecessary data

• To confuse researchers

Answer explanation

The primary purpose of data collection in scientific research is to gather information for analysis. This data is essential for drawing conclusions, testing hypotheses, and advancing knowledge in various fields.

Which of the following is a common method of data collection?

• Guessing

• Survey

• Daydreaming

• Ignoring

Answer explanation

A survey is a systematic method of data collection that involves asking people questions to gather information. Unlike guessing, daydreaming, or ignoring, surveys provide structured and reliable data.

When collecting data, why is it important to ensure accuracy?

• To make the data look impressive

• To ensure reliable results

• To confuse competitors

• To increase the volume of data

Answer explanation

Ensuring accuracy in data collection is crucial to obtain reliable results. Accurate data leads to valid conclusions and informed decisions, while inaccurate data can mislead and produce erroneous outcomes.

Which unit would you use to measure the length of a classroom?

• Miles

• Feet

• Kilograms

• Ounces

Answer explanation

Feet is the appropriate unit to measure the length of a classroom, as it is commonly used for shorter distances. Miles are too large, while kilograms and ounces measure weight, not length.

What is a potential consequence of collecting biased data?

• Improved accuracy

• Misleading conclusions

• Faster data processing

• Increased data volume

Answer explanation

Collecting biased data can lead to misleading conclusions, as the data may not accurately represent the true situation. This can result in incorrect insights and decisions based on flawed information.

Which of the following is NOT a data collection tool?

• Questionnaire

• Interview

• Calculator

• Observation

Answer explanation

A calculator is a tool for performing calculations, not for collecting data. In contrast, questionnaires, interviews, and observations are all methods used to gather information from respondents.

In data collection, what does the term "sample" refer to?

• The entire population

• A subset of the population

• A random guess

• A type of data error

Answer explanation

In data collection, a "sample" refers to a subset of the population. It is used to make inferences about the entire population without needing to collect data from every individual.

What is the main advantage of using digital tools for data collection?

• They are more expensive

• They allow for faster data processing

• They require more training

• They are less reliable

Answer explanation

The main advantage of using digital tools for data collection is that they allow for faster data processing, enabling quicker analysis and decision-making compared to traditional methods.

Which of the following is a qualitative data collection method?

• Measuring temperature in Celsius

• Conducting interviews

• Weighing in pounds

• Counting items

Answer explanation

Conducting interviews is a qualitative data collection method, as it gathers subjective insights and opinions. In contrast, measuring temperature, weighing, and counting are quantitative methods that produce numerical data.

Why is it important to have a clear data collection plan?

• To ensure data is collected randomly

• To avoid collecting unnecessary data

• To increase the complexity of the process

• To confuse the participants

Answer explanation

A clear data collection plan is crucial to avoid collecting unnecessary data, ensuring that only relevant information is gathered, which enhances the efficiency and effectiveness of the research process.