Basis Primary Data Secondary Data
Meaning Data collected first-hand by the researcher Data already collected by others
Purpose Collected for a specific objective Collected for some other purpose
Accuracy Generally more accurate and reliable May be less reliable
Cost Costly and time-consuming Cheap and quick to obtain
Originality Original data Not original (already available)
Examples Surveys, interviews, observations Census reports, books, journals, websites

Precautions in the Use of Secondary Data

  1. Reliability of SourceEnsure data is collected from a trusted and authentic source.
  2. Suitability of DataCheck whether the data is relevant to your objective.
  3. Adequacy of DataData should be sufficient and complete for analysis.
  4. Accuracy of DataVerify if proper methods were used in data collection.
  5. TimelinessEnsure data is up-to-date, not outdated.
  6. ConsistencyCheck whether data is consistent with other sources.

2.1 Methods of Collecting Data

1. Primary Data Collection Methods

(Collected first-hand by the researcher)

  1. Direct Personal InvestigationResearcher personally collects data from respondents.Example: Face-to-face interviews
  2. Indirect Oral InvestigationData is collected from third parties or witnesses.Example: Asking experts or neighbors
  3. Through CorrespondentsLocal agents send information regularly.Example: News agencies collecting reports
  4. Mailed Questionnaire MethodQuestionnaires are sent to respondents to fill and return.
  5. **Schedule Method (Through Enumerators)**Trained investigators collect data by asking questions and filling forms.

2. Secondary Data Collection Methods

(Already collected by others)

  1. Published Sources
  2. Unpublished Sources