ABSTRACT
The choice of a data collection approach should logically flow from the prior decisions about the research questions and measurement choices. This chapter discusses the larger issues of structured and semistructured data collection: that is, quantitative and qualitative data collection methods. The difference between structured and semistructured data collection is like the difference between multiple-choice and fill-in-the-blanks exam questions. The chapter explains several commonly used data collection methods: using available data, collecting data from records and files, and observation. The purpose is provide some 'how to' basics so that it is easier to identify the strengths and limitations of each approach when reading research results. When considering observation as a data collection strategy, researchers have two choices: obtrusive or unobtrusive approaches. A data collection instrument (DCI) is a systematic approach to gather loose data. The DCI contains a space for the researcher to add comments, perhaps a notation about missing information in the file.
