Data Collection Methods

Data collection is a process of collecting information from all the relevant sources to find
answers to the research problem, test the hypothesis and evaluate the outcomes. Data
collection methods can be divided into two categories: secondary methods of data
collection and primary methods of data collection.

Methods of data presentation

Types of sampling techniques

1.1 Random or probability sampling

Probability Sampling This Sampling technique uses randomization to make sure that
every element of the population gets an equal chance to be part of the selected sample.
It’s alternatively known as random sampling.

Simple Random Sampling: Every element has an equal chance of getting selected to
be the part sample. It is used when we don’t have any kind of prior information about the
target population.

Stratified Sampling

This technique divides the elements of the population into small subgroups (strata)
based on the similarity in such a way that the elements within the group are
homogeneous and heterogeneous among the other subgroups formed. And then the
elements are randomly selected from each of these strata. We need to have prior
information about the population to create subgroups.
Cluster Sampling

Our entire population is divided into clusters or sections and then the clusters are
randomly selected. All the elements of the cluster are used for sampling. Clusters are
identified using details such as age, sex, location etc.

Systematic Clustering

Here the selection of elements is systematic and not random except the first element.
Elements of a sample are chosen at regular intervals of population. All the elements are
put together in a sequence first where each element has the equal chance of being
selected.

2) Nonrandom or non-probability sampling

Non-Probability Sampling

It does not rely on randomization. This technique is more reliant on the researcher’s
ability to select elements for a sample. Outcome of sampling might be biased and makes
difficult for all the elements of population to be part of the sample equally. This type of
sampling is also known as non-random sampling.

Convenience Sampling

Here the samples are selected based on the availability. This method is used when the
availability of sample is rare and also costly. So based on the convenience samples are
selected.

Purposive Sampling

This is based on the intention or the purpose of study. Only those elements will be
selected from the population which suits the best for the purpose of our study.

Quota Sampling

This type of sampling depends of some pre-set standard. It selects the representative
sample from the population. Proportion of characteristics/ trait in sample should be
same as population. Elements are selected until an exact proportion of certain types of
data are obtained or sufficient data in different categories is collected.
Referral /Snowball Sampling

This technique is used in the situations where the population is completely unknown and
rare.