Data collection methods - Choose 2

21/07/10 - Data collection methods

Qualitative
Interviews (Method 1)

I can consider that interviewing method is one of the most “less tense” approach of data collection for both the trainer and the interviewee. When it is conducted in an informal way, people will tend to share more about their thoughts and thus not feeling embarrass even if they would have shared something which is out off point. Since it is a one-on-one approach, the observation of the interviewees’ facial expression and body language are usually displayed more naturally and openly. In a way the “intangible” factors of inner feelings and actual thoughts are more personal. Being able to go back to the source again without having to call for another official meeting makes it more flexible and less time consuming for me if I have left out any important data which requires immediate attention.

The questions in the interview can be planned and crafted to my liking and goal setting. Probing is usually used to gather more detailed information and data to clarify grey areas. The other communication skills used include paraphrasing and summarizing. As for the retention of information is essential, one may use recording device (upon approval of the interviewee) however that may not seems necessary as note taking base on the structured questions can be taken.


Focus groups (Method 2)

Firstly, the participants who would be involved in the Focus group are Tracy Tang, Snr Production Manager, Michael Low, Manager Complaint Center, Jenny Chan, Director Human Resources, Jerome and Gary, Team Leaders.

This is one way of getting the main key people together to be involved in analyzing and brainstorming on a subject matter. The Focus group makes up of subject experts in their own individual fields which will be able to provide critical insights and logical approaches which in turn be used to deal with the immediate issue. I see it as an avenue for data collection centre where it would be less accessible without the light minded interaction found within the group. As brainstorming is part of the key feature of the group activity, it is a method to generate ideas for new initiatives and arrest irregularities in a problem solving approach. What I feel is that such amount of constructive data coming out from the participants’ owns words are the precise information required to address the topic of interest.

As those involved are key people, there will not be imbalance of authority within the group. As for group involvement, the usual case is that a “natural flow” of individual key concerns and ideals would be brought forth for discussion and interaction within the topic given. Prior to the meeting, facilitator and group members are given grace period to prepare materials and data for discussion and review. The agenda or topic to be discussed should be addressed positively considering the aim is to ensure maximize attendance at the event. The bottom line is to allow the participants to have the feeling of wanting to attend the meeting. The benefit of having key people in Focus group is to be able to have clearance and easy access to subsequent data.

When crafting the questions, the wording should be of open ended questions so that it allows one to trigger their thoughts about the crux of the subject. This can be sent to those involved so as to prepare them for the discussion and thus reminding them of what are expected of individual contributor. Not forgetting the use of voice recording aid is usually agreed without much issue Asking permission to voice record