How one chooses to approach potential participants can determine the atmosphere for the remainder of the data collection process. Will they remain engaged? Will it go well? It’s all in the approach.
From past data collection experiences, ‘the approach’ is what I would name as the first tip to practice. The rest will flow easier if you approach the participants with a welcoming aura. Try taking your time to introduce yourself and explain, in detail, the purpose of the data collection process. We may not have all the time in the world to collect data but there’s no good to be gained from rushing the process.
First Impressions Matter
The first impression the data collector has on the participant can contribute to how the rest of the survey or interview progresses. Try a casual introduction about yourself and what you’re there for – unrushed and unscripted lends to a less clinical feel. Starting with a simple and friendly “ Hi, How are you today?” will go a far way in getting the conversation started. Listen to their response and feel free to respond to any greetings they may offer as well. Provide your participant with the necessary information. Are there documents to be signed before you begin? Inform the participant on what you are researching, who you’re collecting data for, and what the intended outcomes are. Be prepared … know your stuff! Saying this from memory feels more personal than reading it completely from a paper.
Breaking the ice
This is not quite like breaking the ice at a group discussion, where you might play an interesting game or two to loosen everybody up. In individual data collection settings, it’s leaning more towards making the participant feel comfortable to tell you information and answer the questions honestly. How I practice doing this is by once again, being prepared!
Know your stuff! Do not rely solely on a script. For example, when introducing the topic of informed consent, before handing the respondent an informed consent form to read and sign, I prefer expressing verbally to the participant that their information will be kept confidential and the data collected is strictly for research purposes only, and also that identity won’t be tied to their responses. Furthermore, I make sure to add that they should feel free to ask for clarity on anything that they are not clear on and I’ll explain in the best way I can. If you can express this without reading it off the paper, in the most casual tone, you are on your way to strengthening your data collection skills. Following my verbal explanation, I then hand them the written form to review.
Remaining objective
Why is this important? Objectiveness is a key characteristic of a good researcher. It helps to remain unbiased throughout the data collection process. While you aim to remain objective, naturally, you’re going to have various thoughts and opinions running through your mind regarding the information you’re receiving. That’s our cognitive mind doing its part. The strength in your data collecting skills comes in when you’re able to withhold expressing these thoughts or personal opinions through body language or words.
Data collection strategies and techniques continue to evolve with time. Human behaviour however, remains pretty consistent. As you embark on your data collection journey use these tips and you will be off to a great start. Happy data collecting!
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