Final answer:
Surveys and interviews are common methods for gathering information directly from individuals. Surveys consist of structured questions, while interviews are more conversational, and can be conducted using various methods including face-to-face, over the phone, or online.
Step-by-step explanation:
Gathering information by asking people directly is primarily done through methods such as surveys and interviews. Surveys involve a structured set of questions that are posed to respondents with the purpose of tabulating and interpreting their answers to reveal attitudes, beliefs, or habits. These surveys can be administered in various formats including online, over the phone, by mail, or face-to-face.
Interviews are more conversational and can be conducted in-person, over the phone, or remotely. They involve an interviewer posing questions to another person or people to gather comprehensive and specific information. In cases where more depth or a personal touch is necessary, interviews can be the preferred method to understand experiences and opinions on a subject. Both surveys and interviews are valuable tools for collecting data in field research, public opinion polls, and academic studies.