Final answer:
Qualitative research methods, quantitative research methods, case studies, surveys, observational research, and content analysis can all be used to gather information in public affairs programming or from government officials.
Step-by-step explanation:
When gathering information in public affairs programming or from government officials, various research methods can be employed. Qualitative research methods such as in-depth interviews, focus groups, and analysis of content sources can provide rich, descriptive data that helps understand the experiences and perspectives of individuals. On the other hand, quantitative research methods such as surveys can collect numerical data from a large sample, allowing for generalization of findings. Case studies and surveys can focus on specific instances or groups, providing detailed insights. Finally, observational research and content analysis allow for the examination of behavior and content in public affairs programming or government communication.