Data Entry and Analysis Techniques in Research

Data entry

Data entry

Converts data gathered by secondary or primary methods into a medium for data viewing and manipulation.

Data file

When data for a study is entered.

Data fields

Single element of data from all participants in a study. Software programs allow researchers to define them and link files so storages, retrieval, and updating are simplified.

Data records

Set of data fields from one case; all participants responses.

Database

Multiple stored data files on a cloud server.

Data preparation

Post collection coding of data and editing data; ensure the data accuracy and their conversion from raw to processed forms that are more appropriate for analysis. Preparing a descriptive statistical summary of the collected data for each variable is the tool used to assess the coding scheme for coding errors and identify data entry errors.

Content analysis

Uses a systematic objective approach to code message characteristics so researchers can treat diverse textual or verbal content quantitively as they look for patterns and draw inferences. Works best with larger samples, can still be used on small ones. Can be used to analyze written, audio, or video data. Uses both software calculations along with human input and interpretation to provide managers with critical decision-making insights.

Semantic content

Word use and the meaning of those words to free response questions.

Context units

The objective of the research.

Sampling units

Text elements the researcher will code; word, phrases, sentences.

Recording units

Ideas embedded in the content.

Syntactical units

Specific author defined words, phrases, sentences, or paragraphs. Words are the smallest and most reliable data units to analyze.

Referential units

Describe objects by using words and phrases. Used to make inferences about attitudes, values, or preferences.

Propositional units

Assertions about an object.

Thematic units

Topics contained within and across text; they represent higher level abstractions inferred from the text and its context.

Intra-rater reliability

Researchers must establish this, a measure of the consistency of the application of coding scheme between raters of context, across texts, when multiple raters are used.

Columns

Used for variables.

Rows

Used for data records.