Use primary data sources

Is it typically better to use primary data sources in quantitative research? Why or why not? When, if ever, would secondary data sources be preferred? Explain. +400 words, citation format intext is APA

Sample Solution

Primary data sources are generally preferred in quantitative research because they provide the most reliable and accurate results. Primary data is collected directly from the source, such as surveys or experiments, so it offers a more comprehensive overview of the issue being studied than secondary data sources. Secondary data sources usually rely on analysis of existing information and can be out-of-date or incomplete.

Primary data sources are also advantageous when researching topics for which there is an absence of information about the subject, such as in new areas of study or previously unknown phenomena. When primary data collection is conducted, researchers can gain insights into the target population that may not have been available from secondary sources. This precision makes primary source research highly valuable for many types of quantitative studies.

However, in certain cases where time and resources are limited, researchers may choose to use secondary data rather than collect their own primary information. For example, if a researcher needs to conduct an exploratory study quickly or needs access to historical trends over time that may not be available through primary means (such as census records), then secondary sources can be used without sacrificing too much accuracy or reliability (McGinnis & Thayer 2017). Additionally, using only secondary sources eliminates biases that may arise during primary data collection due to recruiting issues or other factors outside of the researcher’s control (Grimes 2019).

Ultimately, whether a researcher should utilize primary or secondary source material depends upon several factors related to both their topic and approach: what kind of results they need; how much time they have; what resources they possess; etc. In general however, primary data is preferable whenever possible because it provides more precise results than any other type of information (Miles & Huberman 1984). Therefore unless there is a pressing reason why only existing material can be used for quantitative research projects—such as cost limitations or lack of appropriate personnel—primary source collections should always take precedence over any form of precompiled material from secondhand accounts.

References:

Grimes S 2019 ‘The Benefits Of Using Secondary Data For Your Research Project’ Forbes https://www.forbes.com/sites/suzanngrimes/2019/10/21/the-benefits-of-using-secondary-data-for-yourresearchproject/?sh=3e3a42b63d9f Accessed 22 February 2021

Miles M & Huberman A 1984 Qualitative Data Analysis – A Sourcebook Of New Methods Sage Publications Inc., Beverly Hills CA 90210 USA ISBN 0 8039 9835 3 pp 8 – 10

McGinnis JK & Thayer MM 2017 ‘Secondary Sources In Quantitative Research: How To Use Them Effectively’ BMC Medical Education17(44) 1–3 DOI 10 1186/s12909 017 1260 1

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