Targeted literature searches are a fundamental part of writing clinical manuscripts that will meet the standards of high-quality journals and contribute meaningfully to evidence-based practice. When physicians write clinical manuscripts, utilizing a targeted literature search can identify high-quality, relevant, and current evidence. While a general literature review is useful, a targeted literature search is specific to the clinical question and should be completed through frameworks established, such as PICO (Population, Intervention, Comparator, Outcome) and PRISMA [1].
How to Choose the Right Data Collection Methods
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How to Choose the Right Data Collection Methods
Data collection constitutes the foundation of a research study that is empirical in the traditional sense. The credibility, validity, and generalizability of research findings are proportionate to our choices in the appropriate data collection. By selecting the most suited method, whatever the ultimate research objective may be, we can ensure that the selected method allows for sound adaptive research, and our data can be trusted as reliable, accurate, and feasible for analytical purposes. This article identifies the main considerations in the selection of data collection methods, with supplied examples, and summarizes best practices for selecting the most suited method. [1]
1. Why Choosing the Right Data Collection Method Matters
- Assurance of Data Accuracy and Validity
- Contingent on Research Objectives
- Improvement of Reliability and Reproducibility
- Supports Ethical Compliance and Transparency
- Maximization of Resource Use (Time, Cost, People)
Example: In a clinical trial assessing a new drug, validated diagnostics will ensure that we measure treatment effects rather than our own bias.
2. Factors to Consider Before Choosing a Data Collection Method
2.1. Research Objectives and Questions
• Specify the problem and research questions.
• Decide if you need numerical data, opinions, behaviours, or trends.
Example: Studying patient satisfaction (qualitative) requires interviews, while measuring blood glucose levels (quantitative) needs laboratory data.
2.2. Type of Data Needed
2.3. Study Design and Research Approach
- Descriptive Studies: Surveys, observation
- Experimental Studies: Controlled trial, field trial
- Exploratory Studies: Interview, focus group
- Explanatory Studies: Mixed methods
2.4. Available Resources
- Budget constraints
- Timeframe of study
- Accessibility of participants
- Available manpower for data collection
2.5. Ethical Considerations
- Informed consent.
- Data privacy and confidentiality.
- Approval of institutional review boards (IRB)
3. Common Data Collection Methods with Examples
| Method | Type | Example Use |
|---|---|---|
| Surveys/Questionnaires | Quantitative | Collecting customer satisfaction data |
| Interviews | Qualitative | Exploring patient experiences |
| Focus Groups | Qualitative | Understanding community perceptions |
| Observations | Qualitative | Behavioural studies in classrooms |
| Experiments | Quantitative | Clinical drug trials |
| Document Analysis | Secondary | Reviewing policy documents |
| Online Data Collection | Mixed | Web-based surveys, e-interviews |
4. How to Choose the Right Data Collection Method: Step-by-Step
Step 1: Define Research Goals and Hypotheses
- What do you want to measure or explore?
- Are you testing a hypothesis or seeking insights? [3]
Example: If you are to measure weight loss from a diet program, then quantitative measurement (using weight scales) is the only option.
Step 2: Identify the Population and Sample
- Identify target participants.
- Identify sampling methods (i.e., random, stratified, purposive, etc.) Identify target participants.
Example: Studying adolescent behaviour may require stratified sampling by age groups.
Step 3: Select a Suitable Data Collection Technique
- ling method with study design and research question.
- Ensure feasibility within available resources.
Example: A remote workforce study may use online surveys instead of face-to-face interviews
Step 4: Pilot Testing the Method
- Carry out a pilot to validate the tools and methods.
- Check for clarity of meaning, reliability, and understanding from respondents.
Step 5: Evaluate Data Quality and Bias Risks
- Consider risks of bias (selection bias, response bias).
- Implement standard operating procedures (SOPs) for consistency.
Step 6: Ensure Ethical Compliance
- Get consent and respect confidentiality.
- Compliance with data protection regulations (GDPR, etc.)
5. Best Practices for Data Collection
- Use validated instruments.
- Train data collectors properly.
- Function in continuous monitoring and auditing of data collection.
- Create a strict written record of all procedures.
- Conduct frequent reviews of ethical compliance.
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Conclusion
The selection of the proper data collection method is a key step to the success of a research effort. Researchers should always choose the methods that suit the purpose of the study and proposed product, type of data collection needed, resources available, and ethical parameters. Researchers may collect quantitative data, qualitative data, or both. The important point is that a planned data collection approach will allow the researcher to collect valid, reliable, and usable data for the proposed study.
References
- Weyant, E. (2022). Research design: Qualitative, quantitative, and mixed methods approach, 5th edition: By John W. Creswell and J. David Creswell, Los Angeles, CA: SAGE, 2018, $38.34, 304pp., ISBN: 978-1506386706. Journal of Electronic Resources in Medical Libraries, 19(1–2), 54–55. https://doi.org/10.1080
- A guide to data collection methods: Choosing the right approach. (2025, January 26). Ref-n-Write: Scientific Research Paper Writing Software; Ref-n-Write. https://www.ref-n-write.com/
- Taherdoost, H. (2016). Sampling methods in research methodology: How to choose a sampling technique for research. SSRN Electronic Journal. https://doi.org/10.2139/