MEANING AND IMPORTANCE OF STATISTICS

Statistics is a branch that deals with every aspect of the data. Statistical knowledge helps to choose the proper
method of collecting the data and employ those samples in the correct analysis process in order to effectively
produce the results. In short, statistics is a crucial process which helps to make the decision based on the data.

Statistics refers to a discipline of applied mathematics that deals with gathering, describing, analyzing, and drawing
conclusions from numerical data.
It is based on mathematical theories such as differential and integral calculus and linear algebra.
Statistics is about using small sample size groups, and observing their behavior to derive accurate conclusions about
larger groups and general occurrences.

Types of Statistics

The two main branches of statistics are:

 Descriptive Statistics

 Inferential Statistics

Descriptive Statistics – Through graphs or tables, or numerical calculations, descriptive statistics uses the data to
provide descriptions of the population.

Inferential Statistics – Based on the data sample taken from the population, inferential statistics makes the
predictions and inferences.

METHODS OF DATA COLLECTION

Data collection is the process of collecting and evaluating information or data from multiple sources to find answers
to research problems, answer questions, evaluate outcomes, and forecast trends and probabilities. It is an essential
phase in all types of research, analysis, and decision-making, including that done in the social sciences, business, and
healthcare.

What Are the Different Data Collection Methods?

Primary and secondary methods of data collection are two approaches used to gather information for research or
analysis purposes. Let's explore each data collection method in detail:

1. PRIMARY DATA COLLECTION:

Primary data collection involves the collection of original data directly from the source or through direct interaction
with the respondents. This method allows researchers to obtain firsthand information specifically tailored to their
research objectives. There are various techniques for primary data collection, including:

a. Surveys and Questionnaires: Researchers design structured questionnaires or surveys to collect data from
individuals or groups. These can be conducted through face-to-face interviews, telephone calls, mail, or online
platforms.

b. Interviews: Interviews involve direct interaction between the researcher and the respondent. They can be
conducted in person, over the phone, or through video conferencing. Interviews can be structured (with predefined
questions), semi-structured (allowing flexibility), or unstructured (more conversational).

c. Observations: Researchers observe and record behaviors, actions, or events in their natural setting. This method is
useful for gathering data on human behavior, interactions, or phenomena without direct intervention.

d. Experiments: Experimental studies involve the manipulation of variables to observe their impact on the outcome.
Researchers control the conditions and collect data to draw conclusions about cause-and-effect relationships.

e. Focus Groups: Focus groups bring together a small group of individuals who discuss specific topics in a moderated
setting. This method helps in understanding opinions, perceptions, and experiences shared by the participants.
2. SECONDARY DATA COLLECTION:

Secondary data collection involves using existing data collected by someone else for a purpose different from the
original intent. Researchers analyze and interpret this data to extract relevant information. Secondary data can be
obtained from various sources, including:

a. Published Sources: Researchers refer to books, academic journals, magazines, newspapers, government reports,
and other published materials that contain relevant data.

b. Online Databases: Numerous online databases provide access to a wide range of secondary data, such as research
articles, statistical information, economic data, and social surveys.

c. Government and Institutional Records: Government agencies, research institutions, and organizations often
maintain databases or records that can be used for research purposes.

d. Publicly Available Data: Data shared by individuals, organizations, or communities on public platforms, websites,
or social media can be accessed and utilized for research.

e. Past Research Studies: Previous research studies and their findings can serve as valuable secondary data sources.
Researchers can review and analyze the data to gain insights or build upon existing knowledge.

Data Collection Tools

Now that we’ve explained the various techniques, let’s narrow our focus even further by looking at some specific
tools. For example, we mentioned interviews as a technique, but we can further break that down into different
interview types (or “tools”).

 Word Association

The researcher gives the respondent a set of words and asks them what comes to mind when they hear each word.

 Sentence Completion

Researchers use sentence completion to understand what kind of ideas the respondent has. This tool involves giving
an incomplete sentence and seeing how the interviewee finishes it.

 Role-Playing

Respondents are presented with an imaginary situation and asked how they would act or react if it was real.

 In-Person Surveys

The researcher asks questions in person.

 Online/Web Surveys

These surveys are easy to accomplish, but some users may be unwilling to answer truthfully, if at all.

 Mobile Surveys

These surveys take advantage of the increasing proliferation of mobile technology. Mobile collection surveys rely on
mobile devices like tablets or smartphones to conduct surveys via SMS or mobile apps.

 Phone Surveys

No researcher can call thousands of people at once, so they need a third party to handle the chore. However, many
people have call screening and won’t answer.

 Observation

Sometimes, the simplest method is the best. Researchers who make direct observations collect data quickly and
easily, with little intrusion or third-party bias. Naturally, it’s only effective in small-scale situations.
Probability sampling methods

Probability sampling means that every member of the population has a chance of being selected. It is mainly used
in quantitative research. If you want to produce results that are representative of the whole population, probability
sampling techniques are the most valid choice.

There are two primary types of sampling methods that you can use in your research:

 Probability sampling involves random selection, allowing you to make strong statistical inferences about the
whole group.

 Non-probability sampling involves non-random selection based on convenience or other criteria, allowing
you to easily collect data.