Data

The chapter explores the use of data in research. The chapter describes the various sources of data, defines data sampling, explains data collection settings, and discusses the different levels of measurement. Data is an integral aspect of the research process. Without some kind of data, how can research take place? The topic brings up other important questions. For example: 1) what is data, 2) how is data collected, 3) where does data take place, 4) and what are the different levels of data? The chapter explores the identification and use of specific populations and how to set your sample using random sampling or non-random sampling. The chapter investigates the central limit theorem in research, where to get your data, and the distinctions between conceptual and operational definitions. The chapter takes into consideration the use of different levels of measurement including nominal, ordinal, interval, and ratio data. Finally, the chapter considers the distinctions between nominal data, ordinal data, and interval data. Likert (or Likert-type) scales and semantic differential scales are a common means of collecting data from a population.