How does primary data differ from secondary data? Provide an example in which you can use primary data and an example in which you can use secondary data. Explain why the use of data is best for the example you provide.

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Ans: Secondary data refer to data or raw information collected by other researchers. Primary data are collected for a specific purpose by the researcher. Although highly desirable, collecting your own data may not be always feasible or desirable, especially when you find yourself surrounded by raw information already collected by other scientists or institutions. Using available data implies reducing the time and costs of collecting data, so this method is quite popular. This is especially beneficial when the existing data are rich in detail and include the information for which the researcher is looking. Benefits to be discussed are the following six benefits of secondary data: availability of information, opportunities for replication, protection of participants, time-effectiveness, cost-effectiveness, and large data sets.