Page 64 - DMGT209_QUANTITATIVE_TECHNIQUES_II

Unit 4: Research Problem

A pilot test usually involves simulating the actual data collection process on a small scale to get Notes
feedback on whether or not the instruments are likely to work as expected in a “real world”
situation. A typical pilot test involves administering instruments to a small group of individuals
that has similar characteristics to the target population, and in a manner that simulates how data
will be collected when the instruments are administered to the target population.

Pilot testing gives programs an opportunity to make revisions to instruments and data collection
procedures to ensure that appropriate questions are being asked, the right data will be collected,
and the data collection methods will work. Programs that neglect pilot testing run the risk of
collecting useless data.
Pilot testing provides an opportunity to detect and remedy a wide range of potential problems
with an instrument. These problems may include:
 Questions that respondents don’t understand
 Ambiguous questions
 Questions that combine two or more issues in a single question (double-barreled questions)
 Questions that make respondents uncomfortable
Pilot testing can also help programs identify ways to improve how an instrument is administered.
For example, if respondents show fatigue while completing the instrument, then the program
should look for ways to shorten the instrument. If respondents are confused about how to return
the completed instrument, then the program needs to clarify instructions and simplify this
process.

4.5.1 Data Collection

Data collection is the systematic recording of information; data analysis involves working to
uncover patterns and trends in data sets; data interpretation involves explaining those patterns
and trends. Scientists interpret data based on their background knowledge and experience, thus
different scientists can interpret the same data in different ways.

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