What are the reliable ways through which I can collect research data online? I thought creating online surveys and sending personalized emails to the respondents would do the job best, but then I really don’t know how to do it. Also, I wanted to get it clarified if online data collection is even ethical? Because the authenticity of data is seen vulnerable in online data collection in many cases, I’m doubtful. Please advise something. Thanks pals in advance!
For my qualitative research, the supervisor advised collecting the relevant research data through an interview. He guided me only a little about how interview protocol is developed and how transcripts are refined. This brief introduction did me no significant help as I have never prepared any interview protocol. But now in PhD, I must do it and that too alone!! Is someone here who can guide me on creating an interview protocol for qualitative research?
Your interview protocol must be in alignment of your research question and literature review. For developing interview questions, first get the clarity of the extent to which you need to explore the issue and probe the questions for the respondent. Also, since you are preparing it for a qualitative research, stay concerned while writing open-ended questions. The most common mistake that often researchers do is that they formulate the open-ended questions too expansive which at times is good but not always. The vast the questions is, much complicated and tough to transcribe the answer will be.
Internet protocol is not much strenuous! It can be developed in the same way as you develop the qualitative questionnaire. The only difference is that you get only limited information from respondents through questionnaire, whereas interview protocol enables the interviewer to get more specific and additional information. But yes, there is one major challenge with interview protocol. Not every researcher can make the full use of it due to rapport. Establishing that comfort and friendly connection with interviewee is the toughest part. Keep this in mind while preparing questions and introductory script.
Mustafa Zunaid and 
Robin are discussing. 
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Robin 6:50 pm on September 8, 2017 Permalink |
I am hoping that you intend to send personalized emails to those respondents with whom you are acquainted very well. Otherwise, there is a little hope that you will be successful. Nowadays, identity theft is on the rise and majority of the people (including me) prefer not to reveal much on a cyberspace. I guess a paper and pencil method would produce better results where you get to meet your respondents in person.
Alexie 8:48 am on September 12, 2017 Permalink |
As far as I believe it would be considered unreliable than unethical. You cannot be sure about the authenticity of the data collected because sometimes the people can be insecure to divulge certain personal information on the internet solely for a research purpose. Moreover, I can give you a good tip. You should try to keep your questions extremely precise. Respondents usually don’t take online surveys seriously and there can be a high dropout rate when faced with tricky questions. So, make it convenient for them. Good luck!
Mustafa Zunaid 6:13 am on September 16, 2017 Permalink |
The idea of collecting data online is actually good. This way you can get to connect with large number of audience and you can save time and money. Keep one thing in mind, do not connect with the wrong audience.Choose your target audience wisely and the one from where you can get 80%response. All the best with your research.
Lauren 5:12 am on September 19, 2017 Permalink |
My advice would be, do not include personal questions. Because sometimes people refrain from providing personal information. Try to design your questionnaire in such a way that it doesn’t lack the core essence of your research. Also, there are many online services available which provides tools to conduct surveys via emails and other modes. You can consult them as well. As they have a vast network, so they can provide you with the correct audience from whom you can the positive results.This way, it will be easier for you to articulate your results.