Knowing the data sources he requires to use for his various objectives is important for a researcher. “ Data are facts, figures and other relevant materials past and present serving as bases for study and analysis”. There are two sources of information or say data- Primary data and Secondary data. Primary data mean the data collected for the first time, whereas secondary data means the data that has already been collected and used earlier by somebody or some agency.
The data serve as the bases or raw materials for analysis without Data no specific inferences can be drawn on our study. The reliability of data determines the quality of research. Data form the basis of testing hypotheses data provides the facts and figures for constructing a measuring scale. The scientific process of research can be carried out only through accurate data.
Sources of Data
The sources of data may be classified into a) primary sources and b) Secondary sources.
Primary Sources: Primary sources are original sources from which the researcher directly collects data that have not been previously collected. Primary Data are first–hand information collected through various methods such as observation, interviews, etc.
Secondary Sources: These are sources containing data that have been collected and compiled for another purpose. The secondary sources consist of readily available and compiled statistical statements and reports. Secondary sources consist of not only published but also unpublished records. They consist of Data over which a researcher has no original control.