EBP exam 2: Data Collection

objective data collection

free from the researchers personal biases, beliefs, values or attitudes

systematic data collection methods

data is collected in a uniform, consistent or standard way, this is called objective data collection.

an example of operationalize variable is

a measurable attribute that can be quantified

first step of data collection

researchers determine the study’s data collection methods from LIT REVIEW

second step of data collection process

tools and instruments reliable and valid

• time consuming process

• must measure the variables of interest

• critical to the study’s success

what does the study success depend on

the fidelity of the data collection methods and the measurements used

what is fidelity

consistency and quality of the data collection methods and measurements throughout the study.

what is consistency

how well connected are the study aims, hypotheses, setting and population

what are data collection methods

observation, self-report, physiologic data and existing data

observational methods of data collection

collecting data on behavior under certain conditions

collected data on nonverbal/verbal communication, behavior, environmental conditions

observations MUST be consistent with aims and objectives

useful in cultural and contextual influences like social determinants of health

scientific methods of data collection

objective and subjective nature of what is happening

what four conditions must be met for an observation to be scientific

1. must have a standardized and systematic plan for the observation and the data recording process

2. cosistent with study aims and objectives

3. related to scientific concepts and theories

4. checked and controlled

what are the two types of observational methods

structured vs unstructured

unstructured observational methods

usually involve collecting descriptive information about the topics of interest

unstructured observational methods - field notes

used to record the activities and observers interpretations; usually UNSTRUCTURED NOTES

unstructured observational methods - anecdotes

usually focus on the behaviors of interest and illustrate a particular point. UNSTRUCTURED summaries of an observation

structured observational methods

specify in advance behaviors or events to be observed, used standardized forms for record-keeping

• categorization systems

• checklists

• rating scales

must include formal training and standardization of the observers

advantages of structured observational methods

observation may be the only way to consistently study the variable of interest

allows for depth and variety of information collected

flexibility to use techniques in experimental and nonexperimental designs

disadvantages of structured observational methods

observer bias may be an issues

• emotions

• prejudices

• values

reduce inferences and judgments to prevent data distortion

concealment: what is the role of the observer

The role of the observer in concealment is to remain unnoticed to prevent influencing participants' behavior, ensuring that data collected is authentic and reflective of natural actions.

what happens if observation is not concealed and no intervention

no ethical implications, greater depth of observation,and problem: hawthorne effect/reactivity

• distorted view of what actually happens

• they know they are being observed