Module 22

Module 22 discusses the types of information you find, analyze and use for research. There are two types of research. The first type is called primary, or research that you do yourself. Surveys and interviews are both examples of primary research.  Secondary research is information that is gathered from other sources. Anytime you use a search engine such as www.google.com, you are conducting secondary research.

When you do use search engines, be careful how you phrase the search. Use “and” and “or” to reduce your findings into articles that will actually be helpful. The book also suggests using more print resources because those are more credible since experts review them before being published.

When creating questions for a survey or interview, the book recommends being specific and using different styles of questions so you get the best response. The two basic types of questions are closed and open. Closed questions have a list of possible options like a multiple-choice question on a test. Open questions allow the person answering to say anything like an essay question on a test.

When choosing who to ask these questions to it is important to understand the population. For a survey use a random sampling but for interviews use a judgment sample, or a group of people who’s views would be relevant to the subject matter.

When using the information you have found or collected yourself, make sure you use MLA or APA citation formats. Ask the person who requested the report of they have a preference.