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Web site spotlight: Data collection: Which tools measure up?

Staff Development Weekly: Insight on Evidence-Based Practice in Education, September 11, 2008

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When choosing a specific tool or measure for collecting information, researchers must consider the structure of the tool being chosen (is data going to be collected informally or in a formal setting?), whether statistical analysis can be performed on the tool, whether the tool interferes with the subjects' normal lifestyle, and what objectivity the tool produces.

This list of measurement tools identifies pros and cons of each, and will help you determine which approach to data collection is right for you.

  • Self-report. Information can be recorded confidentially. However, you may receive unreliable answers (as subjects may give exaggerated answers).
  • Observational. Subjects and/or data can be gathered directly in natural settings, but it lacks creativity and you cannot ask subjects about behavior observed.
  • Phone surveys. This method is easy to use, but not everyone has a landline phone (many have cell phones without accessible numbers) and only subjects with a strong interest in the topic usually participate.
  • E-mail surveys. These are timely, usually have fast turnaround response time, and allow picture and sound attachments if needed. However, some subjects may bias the findings by responding to the survey more than once, and findings cannot be generalized to the larger population.

Editor's note: This excerpt was adapted from "Choosing a measurement tool," found in the Tools Library at www.StrategiesForNurseManagers.com. Get a free trial membership that will give you 30 days to test drive all the exciting features on the Web site.



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