Primary data refers to original information collected directly by the researcher for a specific
research purpose. It is gathered firsthand from sources such as experiments, observations,
interviews, questionnaires, surveys, or measurements. Because primary data is collected
specifically for the study, it is usually more relevant and tailored to the research objectives.
However, collecting primary data can be time-consuming and costly.
Secondary data-refers to information that has already been collected, analyzed, and published by
other individuals, organizations, or researchers. Common sources of secondary data include books,
journal articles, government reports, databases, websites, and previous research studies. Secondary
data is often easier and less expensive to obtain, but it may not always perfectly match the specific
needs of a study.
Quantitative data collection refers to the systematic gathering of numerical data that can be
measured, counted, and analyzed using statistical techniques. It is used to quantify variables,
identify patterns, test hypotheses, and make generalizations about a population. Quantitative data
collection method includes questionnaire/survey, experimentation, structured observation, and
laboratory measurements.
Experiment
An experiment is a quantitative method of data collection in which a researcher deliberately
manipulates one or more variables and observes the effect on another variable under controlled
conditions. It is commonly used to establish cause-and-effect relationships between variables. In
an experiment, the researcher typically identifies an independent variable (the factor being
changed) and a dependent variable (the factor being measured). By controlling other variables, the
researcher can determine whether changes in the independent variable directly affect the dependent
variable.
Variables
A variable is any characteristic, number, or quantity that can be measured, counted, or changed or
something that can have different values or categories. Example
• Age (10 years, 20 years, 30 years)
• Height (150 cm, 170 cm, 180 cm)
• Temperature (20°C, 25°C, 30°C)
• Gender (male, female)
Types of variables
Variables are divided into three different categories which includes independent, dependents and
continuous variables.
Independent variable: it is the factor in an experiment that is deliberately changed or controlled
by the researcher to observe its effect on another variable. In an experiment involving the
application of fertilizer on plant growth, the amount of fertilizer applied is the independent variable
and the growth of the plant is the dependent variable.
A dependent variable: is the factor in an experiment that is measured or observed by the
researcher to see how it changes in response to the independent variable. It is called “dependent”
because its value depends on the changes made to the independent variable.
Controlled variable: A controlled variable is anything that is kept the same in an experiment to
make sure the results are fair and accurate. They ensure that any change in the dependent variable
is only due to the independent variable, not other factors. Plant growth experiment: Independent
variable: Amount of fertilizer, Controlled variables: Type of plant, Amount of water, Soil type,
Sunlight exposure
Characteristics of a Good Experiment
A good experiment should have several important features that ensure the results are accurate,
reliable, and meaningful. These include:
• Controlled (conditions are kept constant except one factor): This means the researcher
should be able to control or keep constant all factors except the independent variable this
ensure fair testing. If variables are not controlled, the results may be influenced by other
factors.
• Systematic (follows clear steps): Experimentation must be systematic as it follows a clear,
organized, and step-by-step procedure. It ensures no steps are missed or done randomly
and makes the experiment easy to follow and repeat.
• Objective (based on facts, not opinions); experiments is free from bias as the researcher
does not influence results intentionally. Data is recorded exactly as observed.
• Repeatable (can be repeated to confirm results): Experiments must be repeatable. Other
researchers must be able to repeat the experiment under the same controlled conditions and
get similar results.
• Measurable (produces numerical data): A good experiment produces data that can be
measured and expressed in numbers. This allows statistical analysis.
Advantage of experimentation
a) Gives Accurate and Reliable Results: Experimentation is conducted under controlled
conditions where the researcher carefully manages variables that could influence the
outcome. This reduces errors and increases the accuracy of the findings
b) Helps establish cause and effect: One of the greatest strengths of experimentation is its
ability to determine whether one factor directly causes changes in another factor. By
manipulating the independent variable while keeping other variables constant, researchers
can observe the resulting effect on the dependent variable.
c) Data is Measurable and Objective: Experimental data are usually collected in numerical
form, making them easy to quantify, analyze, and compare. Measurements are based on
observable facts rather than personal opinions, which increases objectivity.
d) Can Be Repeated for Verification: Experiments can be replicated by the same researcher
or by other researchers using the same procedures. If similar results are obtained repeatedly,
confidence in the findings increases
Limitations of Experimentation
1. Can Be Expensive or Time-Consuming: Experiments often require significant financial
resources and time to plan, conduct, and analyze. Researchers may need to purchase
materials, chemicals, laboratory supplies, and specialized equipment. In addition, repeated
trials and data analysis can extend the duration of the study.
2. Requires Equipment and Controlled Conditions: For experimental results to be valid,
researchers must maintain controlled conditions and often use specialized equipment. Not
all researchers or institutions have access to the necessary facilities, instruments, or
technical expertise.
3. Sometimes Not Realistic Compared to Real-Life Situations: Experiments are usually
conducted under highly controlled conditions that may not accurately reflect real-world
environments. As a result, findings obtained in the laboratory may differ from what occurs
in natural settings.