Final answer:
Research data can be categorized as quantitative (numerical), qualitative (descriptive), primary (firsthand), or secondary (sourced from others). Quantitative data can be discrete or continuous, while qualitative data consists of text or visual descriptions.
Step-by-step explanation:
Understanding Types of Data in Research
There are several types of data that can be collected in assessments, each with its unique features and uses. Quantitative data is numerical and can be measured and compared, such as test scores or the number of people in a group. It can further be divided into quantitative discrete data, which can only take on certain values, and quantitative
continuous data, which can take on any value within a given range.
Qualitative data is descriptive and conceptual, often collected using methods such as in-depth interviews, focus groups, or analysis of content sources. This type of data is typically textual or visual and can include attitudes, feelings, or behaviors.
Primary data is data collected firsthand, generally by the researcher, through methods such as surveys, observations, or experiments. This type of data is directly related to the research question. In contrast, secondary data refers to data that was collected by someone else for a different purpose but is being used by the researcher for their own study.
Researchers often utilize both qualitative and quantitative methods to gain a comprehensive understanding of their topic. The type of data chosen for collection often depends on the nature of the research question and the information needed to answer it.