ABSTRACT
Once researchers determine the research design, they need to decide exactly how they will gather their data. A brief look at research articles in applied linguistics quickly reveals that there are many procedures used for collecting data. Some people argue that certain procedures are superior to others. However, I argue, along with others (e.g., Tashakkori & Teddlie, 1998, chap. 2), that the value of a data-gathering procedure depends on how well it provides answers to the research questions. As a consumer, you should become familiar with as many of these procedures as possible so that you will not be limited in your search for answers to your questions.
