A researcher companion of data collection and validation methods

Abstract

<abstract> <p>This paper aims to fill a gap between textbooks and papers on data collection methods. Many undergraduate study programs include modules on data collection methods. They provide students with systematic insight into data collection methods. However, a few years later, when students want to apply this training in their research, they may have forgotten unapplied parts! Because researchers might not devote themselves to adequate re-study of data collection textbooks, they sometimes choose a data collection method without a systematic view of other methods and the wider framework of data collection. Researchers might devote their available time to selective study about applying their chosen data collection method, but a loss of overall methodological insight might have negative implications for the research. The present paper aims to help with this problem. It provides a researcher companion of data collection and validation methods in a systematic textbook style but within a concise paper with essential details and examples. The paper can be used by researchers of different disciplines as a standalone methodological guide or a legend for informed searching of more detail in relevant references.</p> </abstract>