Data Collection Practice Exam

About Data Collection
Data collection is the process of gathering quantitative and qualitative information on specific variables with the aim of evaluating outcomes or gleaning actionable insights. Good data collection requires a clear process to ensure the data you collect is clean, consistent, and reliable.

Establishing that process, however, can be tricky. It involves taking stock of your objectives, identifying your data requirements, deciding on a method of data collection, and finally organizing a data collection plan that synthesizes the most important aspects of your program.

Data collection involves steps as
•    Define your project objectives
•    Identify your data requirements
•    Determine your method of data collection
•    Organize your data collection plan

Regardless of the field of study or preference for defining data (quantitative or qualitative), accurate data collection is essential to maintain research integrity. The selection of appropriate data collection instruments (existing, modified, or newly developed) and delineated instructions for their correct use reduce the likelihood of errors.

A formal data collection process is necessary as it ensures that the data gathered are both defined and accurate. This way, subsequent decisions based on arguments embodied in the findings are made using valid data. The process provides both a baseline from which to measure and in certain cases an indication of what to improve.

There are 5 common data collection methods:
•    closed-ended surveys and quizzes
•    open-ended surveys and questionnaires
•    1-on-1 interviews
•    focus groups
•    direct observation

Data Collection has gained immense popularity across the globe resulting in huge demand for certified professionals.

Why is Data Collection important?

Data collection enables a person or organization to answer relevant questions, evaluate outcomes and make predictions about future probabilities and trends. Accurate data collection is essential to maintaining the integrity of research, making informed business decisions and ensuring quality assurance.

•    Data empowers you to make informed decisions
•    Data helps you identify problems
•    Data allows you to develop accurate theories
•    Data will back up your arguments
•    Data tells you what you’re doing well
•    Find Solutions To Problems
•    Keep Track Of It All

Certified Data Collection professionals, executives and managers are in high demand in companies across the globe.

Important Concepts for Data Collection Practice Exam

• Scientific Method and Research Design
• Primary Data Collection
• Secondary Data Collection
• Sampling and Hypothesis
• Data Processing and Analysis
  

Who should take the Data Collection Exam?
•    Professionals engaged in research or quality management
•    Innovators
•    Anyone who wants to assess their data collection skills
•    Research managers and senior executives
•    Professionals working in outsourced companies responsible for market research, consumer research or any research related activity
•    Anyone interested in data collection
•    Individuals who encounters data collection within their day-to-day job
•    Students

Data Collection Practice Exam Objectives

Data Collection exam focuses on assessing your skills and knowledge in collecting data for analysis and decision making.

Data Collection Practice Exam Pre-requisite

There are no prerequisites for the Data Collection exam. Candidate should be well versed  in data collection to clear the exam.

Data Collection Certification Course Outline
1. The Research Process
1.1 The Research Process
1.2 Formulating the Research Problem
1.3 Choice of Research Design
1.4 Determining Sampling Design and Sampling Size
1.5 Preparing the Research Report
1.6 Evaluation and Control of Research

2. Scientific Method and Research Design
2.1 Scientific Method
2.2 Research Design
2.3 Types of Research Design
2.4 Causal Designs
2.5 Method of Agreement
2.6 Causal Inference Studies

3. Research and Data Objectives
3.1 Research Objectives
3.2 The Research Plan
3.3 Specifying Data and Acquisition Methods

4. Research Communication
4.1 Factors in Decisions on Media

5. Primary Data Collection
5.1 Collection of Primary Data
5.2 Using Diaries
5.3 Questionnaire Design
5.4 Interviewing
5.5 The Role of Focus Groups
5.6 Survey

6. Secondary Data Collection
6.1 Methodological and Ethical Considerations
6.2 Compatibility of the Data with Secondary Analysis
6.3 Reporting of Original and Secondary

7. Sampling and Hypothesis
7.1 Statistics Basics
7.2 Data Basics
7.3 Measurement Systems
7.4 Some Basic Terms
7.5 Types of Sample Designs
7.6 Bases of stratification
7.7 Characteristics of a Good Sample Design
7.8 Determining the Sample Size

8. Data Processing and Analysis
8.1 Data Preparation
8.2 Data Validation
8.3 Data Editing
8.4 Coding
8.5 Tabulation
8.6 Data-Processing Methods

Exam Format and Information
Certification name – Data Collection Certification
Exam duration – 60 minutes
Exam type - Multiple Choice Questions
Eligibility / pre-requisite - None
Exam language - English
Exam format - Online
Passing score - 25
Exam Fees  - INR 1199