Final answer:
Selecting appropriate data-gathering techniques for research variables involves choosing methods that align with the research objectives, ensuring the data collected is reliable and valid. Surveys are a common method, and they must be carefully designed to accurately capture quantitative data that is relevant to the research question.
Step-by-step explanation:
Selecting the appropriate data-gathering techniques for measuring research variables involves identifying and justifying the type of data that is needed to answer a specific research question. Surveys are a common technique for gathering data, particularly quantitative data that can be counted and easily tabulated into numerical form for analysis. For instance, yes-or-no or multiple-choice questions provide structured responses that can be charted into percentages. When using surveys, researchers must consider the type of data they aim to collect, be it for confirming hypotheses or exploring attitudes, the appropriateness of the technique to the research question, potential drawbacks such as bias or low response rate, and the design of the survey instrument.
For example, a researcher might be interested in exploring consumer behavior related to sustainable products. They can utilize a survey asking questions about purchasing habits, attitudes towards sustainability, and willingness to pay a premium for eco-friendly products. Each question would serve a specific purpose, such as assessing current market trends or the impact of environmental awareness on purchase decisions. Furthermore, defining the target population and creating a plan to recruit a random sample would ensure that the survey results are representative and generalizable.
Therefore, the technique chosen must align with the research objectives, ensuring the data collected is reliable and valid to support the research results.