Data Collection Methods

Types of Data Collection

Primary data is information collected firsthand by the researcher during fieldwork. It is original and specific to the enquiry question. Examples include counts, measurements, surveys, and observations made on site.

Secondary data is data that has already been collected by someone else. It can be used to support or compare with primary data. Examples include maps, government statistics, previous research, and online databases.

Qualitative data describes qualities or characteristics and is descriptive rather than numerical. It often provides insights into people's opinions, feelings, or the appearance of a place. Examples include written responses, photographs, and field sketches.

Quantitative data is numerical and can be measured or counted. It allows for statistical analysis and comparison. Examples include traffic counts, temperature readings, and survey scores.

Primary Data Collection Methods

Surveys and questionnaires gather information from people by asking questions. They can be structured (with fixed answers) or unstructured (open-ended). Surveys are useful for collecting opinions, behaviours, or demographic data.

Field sketches and photographs capture visual details of the environment. Field sketches are quick drawings that highlight key features or changes in the landscape. Photographs provide a permanent record and can be analysed later.

Environmental quality surveys assess the condition of an area using criteria such as litter, noise, air quality, or green space. These surveys often use a scoring system to quantify the quality.

Traffic counts and pedestrian counts involve counting the number of vehicles or people passing a point over a set time. This quantitative data helps understand usage patterns and congestion.

For instance, if you conduct a pedestrian count outside a shopping centre for 30 minutes and count 150 people, the average number of pedestrians per minute is:

$\frac{150}{30} = 5\,\mathrm{pedestrians\,min^{-1}}$

Secondary Data Sources

Maps and atlases provide spatial information such as land use, relief, transport networks, and settlement patterns. Ordnance Survey (OS) maps are commonly used in the UK for detailed fieldwork.

Government reports and statistics offer official data on population, employment, health, and the environment. The Office for National Statistics (ONS) is a key source.

Online databases and GIS (Geographical Information Systems) allow access to large datasets and spatial analysis tools. GIS can overlay different types of data to reveal patterns and relationships.

Previous fieldwork data includes data collected by other students or researchers on similar topics or locations. It can provide a useful comparison or background context.

For example, using OS maps to identify land use zones before visiting a town helps plan where to collect primary data.

Sampling Techniques

Random sampling involves selecting sites or participants by chance, ensuring every option has an equal chance. This reduces bias but can be unrepresentative if the sample size is small.

Systematic sampling selects samples at regular intervals, such as every 10 metres along a river or every 5th house on a street. It is easy to carry out and ensures coverage across the study area.

Stratified sampling divides the population or area into groups (strata) based on characteristics like land use or social class, then samples are taken from each group proportionally. This ensures all groups are represented.

Opportunity sampling involves collecting data from people or places that are easiest to access. It is quick and convenient but can be biased and not representative. For example, asking people who happen to be nearby at the time.

For example, if you want to sample river water quality at regular points, you might take samples every 50 metres along the riverbank (systematic sampling).