Data Collection Statistics Example 2

Follow the full solution, then compare it with the other examples linked below.

Example 2

easy
Classify each data-collection method as a survey, an observation, or an experiment: (a) Recording how many cars pass a junction each hour. (b) Asking 50 people their favourite colour. (c) Giving one group of plants fertiliser and another group none, then measuring growth.

Solution

  1. 1
    Step 1: (a) The researcher watches and records without interacting — this is an observation.
  2. 2
    Step 2: (b) The researcher asks people questions — this is a survey.
  3. 3
    Step 3: (c) The researcher deliberately changes a condition (fertiliser vs none) — this is an experiment.

Answer

(a) Observation, (b) Survey, (c) Experiment.
Understanding the three main data-collection methods helps us choose the right approach for a given research question and recognise the strengths and limitations of each.

About Data Collection

The systematic process of gathering information to answer questions, using methods like surveys, experiments, or observations.

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More Data Collection Examples

Example 1 easy

A student wants to find out the favourite sport of students in her school. She decides to ask every

Example 3 easy

A town council wants to know whether residents support building a new park. They place a survey form

Example 4 easy

A school wants to know how many students ride the bus. They ask the first 20 students who enter thro

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