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 education will quickly reveal that there are many procedures used for collecting data. Some people argue that certain procedures are superior to others. However, we argue, along with others (e.g., Tashakkori & Teddlie, 1998, Chapter 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.
