APA: Data Collection Techniques
Research Methods
Discussion Board 1
Research and describe 5 data collection techniques in your own words. Be sure to cite any sources you used in APA format.
Answer the following questions:
Why is the examination of collected data so important?
How are statistics used in the field of criminal justice?
There are so many ways to collect data that do not involve the common ways in a direct manner. We as individual people collect and store our memories in a few ways, and that is all data as well. Many people use their own life experiences when using data to find a solution to something, or help others in some way, or all the above. I have found 5 ways that are pretty common, and they are: 1- Documents; used to identify trends in research and practice. To perform analysis through reports and other forms of recorded data. 2- Observation; watching behavior and interactions of people or wildlife to compile data. 3- Survey- to learn something about what people think about some kind of motivation, and identity the relationship between motivation and satisfaction. 4- Experimental- to gain data through controlled conditions such as a group test. 5- Multi-method Approach- a combination …show more content…
of 2 or more other methods of data collection to create a better definition of the focus concept. The examination of data is important on so many levels to so many organizations (public and private). Data helps to predict an outcome in the popularity of a product. It helps to track the movements, and methods of criminal activity and the organizations who perform them. It helps in sports, and in schools. If you pick a subject, there will be someone examining data about the subject to not only improve it, but to help decide where the best places to market it, or to observe the subject. The use of statistics in criminal justice is intrinsic in the field. It is used by every agency (even the private sector) to address the many types of crime, to decide how to best use the recourses that are available. Statistics are used to tract criminals and criminal organizations. Statistics have made crime solving and stopping more successful.
References
Lieutenant Scott Little (California Correctional SERT Commander:retired): Heald College (Roseville, CA) Criminal Justice Program Director http://www.prm.nau.edu/prm447/methods_of_data_collection_lesson.htm Quantitative data analysis compiles statistics from police records of criminals and crimes committed, and numbers are analyzed for increases or decreases in crimes. Qualititive data analysis are used to gain deeper insight into crime data than what is available from the uniform crime reports and Meta-Data analysis uses the findings or data from multiple sources, rather than just one or one type, to study a criminal issue (Cardenas, Heidi n.d). Face-to-face interviews have the advantage of enabling the researcher to establish a rapport with potential pearticipants and gain thier cooperation. Telephone interviews are less time consuming , less expensive but the disadvantage is the response rate is not as high as a face to face interview. There are also paper and pencil questionnaires that can be sent to a large number of peole and saves the researcher time and money. Data collection is important because it helps to collect, study, record information and make decisions about important issues. It also helps to provide information regarding a specific topic or area of study (ask.com). Statistics are used to maintain and enhance each states capacity to address criminal justice issues through the collection and analysis of data (BJS.gov). References
Bureau of Justice Statistics, (n.d.). Criminal justice data improvement program. Retrieved from website: www.bjs.gov/indexicfm?ty=tp&tid=4
Cardenas, H. (n.d.). Data analysis methods in criminology. Retrieved from www.ehow.com/info_8454276_data-analysis-methods-criminology.html
Data collection methods. (n.d.). Retrieved from www.people.uwec.edu/piercech/researchmethods/data collection methods/data collection methods.htm
Why is data collection important?. (n.d.). Retrieved from www.ask.com/question/why-is-data-collection-important
Theory defines, assumes, proposes, explains, and predicts what the research outcome is likely to prove (right or wrong). It is an integrated body of propositions, assumptions, and definitions that are related in explaining and predicting relationships between two or more variables. Theory could be any of the following: deductive inductive grounded axiomatic
On the other hand, hypotheses are statements or assertions derived from theory that can be tested by scientific inquiry and that are capable of being refuted, and their tests may result in support or nonsupport for the theory from which they were derived.
Prepare a 5–7-page paper that address the following questions:
What are the key differences between the 4 identified types of research theories above?
Is any one type of theory more valid than the others? Why or why not?
What are the differences and similarities (if any) between theory and hypothesis?
What are variables, and why are they important components of theoretical schemes?
Lakeisha Andrews
CRJS405-Resubmit
American Intercontinental University
Theories and Hypothesis
A hypothesis consists either of a suggested explanation for an observable phenomenon or of a reasoned proposal predicting a possible causal correlation among multiple phenomena. In science, a theory is a well-substantiated, unifying explanation for a set of verified, proven hypotheses. (Hypothesis vs. Theory). This paper will focus on four types of research theories known as: deductive, inductive, grounded and axiomatic. I will discuss the differences and similarities between theories and hypothesis and if one type of theory is more valid than the others. This paper will also focus on variables and why they are important components of theoretical schemes. Deductive research works from the general to the more specific.
This sometimes could be called the “top-down” approach. The top-down approach is when the researcher starts at the top with a very broad spectrum of information and they work their way down to a specific conclusion (Inductive & Deductive). For instance, a researcher starts with a theory of a topic of their interests. They will then narrow that down into more specific hypotheses that can be tested. The hypotheses are then narrowed down even further when observations are collected to test the hypotheses. This ultimately leads the researcher to be able to test the hypotheses with specific data, leading to a confirmation (or not) of the original theory and arriving at a conclusion (Deductive versus
Inductive). Inductive reasoning works the other way. It moves from specific observations to broader generalizations and theories. This can be called a bottom up approach (Inductive & Deductive). The researcher begins with specific observations and measures, begins to then detect patterns and regularities, formulate some tentative hypotheses to explore, and finally ends up developing some general conclusions or theories (Deductive versus Inductive). The differences in these two theories are inductive reasoning is more open-ended and exploratory, especially during the early stages. Deductive reasoning is narrow and is generally used to test or confirm hypotheses (Deductive versus Inductive). Arguments based on laws, rules and accepted principles are generally used for Deductive
Reasoning. Observations tend to be used for Inductive Arguments ( Inductive & Deductive). Grounded theory is a research method which operates almost in a reverse fashion from traditional social science research. Rather than beginning with a hypothesis, the first step is data collection, through a variety of methods. From the data collected, the key points are marked with a series of codes which are extracted from the text. The codes are grouped into similar concepts in order to make them more workable (Grounded theory). Axiomatic research is when reliable and predictable evaluations can be obtained. Scientific points are used to make research predict exactly what will happen. One example of this is Newton’s Theory of Gravity. Scientific methods were used to determine what would happen to the apple when it fell. Scientifically, this could always be predicted to happen when researching gravity. (Thompson, 2006).
I don’t feel one theory is more valid than the other. Depending on the type of research that is being conducted will determine the right kind of theory for that particular subject. A hypothesis consists either of a suggested explanation for an observable phenomenon or of a reasoned proposal predicting a possible causal correlation among multiple phenomena. In science, a theory is a well-substantiated, unifying explanation for a set of verified, proven hypotheses (Hypothesis vs. Theory). As opposed to theory, a hypothesis needs to be testable and falsifiable. Both theories and hypothesis are ideas that can be used in research. They both can be tested to get an answer of a proposed question. Both hypothesis and theories can be scientific. All research projects are based around variables. Variable is a measurable characteristic that varies. It may change from group to group, person to person, or even within one person over time. The variable can be a number, a name, or anything where the value can change (Research Methodology). Independent variables, dependent variables, and confounding variables are three variables used in research. The "dependent variable" represents the output or effect, or is tested to see if it is the effect. The "independent variables" represent the inputs or causes, or are tested to see if they are the cause. Other variables may also be observed for various reasons. Any variable that can potentially play a role in the outcome of a study but which is not part of the study is called a confounding variable (Dependent and Independent variables).
References: Hypothesis vs. Theory. (n.d). Retrieved from: http://www.diffen.com/difference/Hypothesis_vs_Theory
Burney, S.M. (2008). Inductive and deductive research approach. Retrieved from:http://www.drburney.net/INDUCTIVE%20&%20DEDUCTIVE%20RESEARCH%20APPROACH%2006032008
Crossman, A. Deductive reasoning versus Inductive reasoning. Retrieved from: http://sociology.about.com/od/Research/a/Deductive-Reasoning-Versus-Inductive-Reasoning.htm
Ground Theory. (n.d). Retrieved from: http://en.wikipedia.org
Thompson, K. (2006). Methodology of Theory Construction. Retrieved from: http//www.indiana.edu/pdf
Research Methodolgy. (n.d). Retrieved from: http://explorable.com/research-methodology
Dependent and Independent variables. (n.d). Retrieved from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dependent_and_independent_variables
Individual post 2
Quantitative design should address the descriptive and the inferential statistical analysis that will be used to analyze the data. Qualitative design needs should define how the data will be organized, what trends will be looked at, and how differences and similarities will be identified.
Explain the various means available to you for gathering data on the topic you have chosen.
Explain at least 3 different means of collecting appropriate data and how you would analyze it.
What challenges exist when collecting quantitative data?
What challenges exist when collecting qualitative data?
Data can be collected on a number of significant fundamentals when it involves to domestic violence, its contingent on the type and range of the domestic violence. This contains the end result and costs associated with domestic violence. It also includes the help that survivors would need. Public officials, service providers and others that are either responsible for implementing the law or targeted in an intervention. Data can also be separated into components for more specific information by age, residence, environment and ethnicity/race or socio-economic level. (http://www.endvawnow.org)
Methods for normal data collection and analysis can contain collaborations amid government, international organizations, civil society and academic or research institutions at both the national and subnational levels. The most familiar study and data collection methods on domestic violence against women include Qualitative Researchand Qualitative research. This includes speedy evaluations or detailed surveys aimed at a group or one person inside a populace and provides more specific information on a smaller scale of people. (http://www.un.org)
Qualitative research doesn’t collect statics on the occurrence of domestic violence against women and girls, but can brings forth the women’s encounters with domestic violence. Interviews with survivors, advocates, attorneys, police, prosecutors, judges, probation officers, health professionals, and social service providers helps raise the awareness about the circumstances in which domestic violence takes place and recognizes the responses to domestic violence as well as holes in services. (Richie, 2004)Qualitative research procedures help to enlighten the policies or the program growth, this can also be used for observing and assessment of interventions. (Ellsberg and Heise, 2005) Quantitative Research, can have surveys or studies created on a populace or certain group within the populace, it often produces a smaller amount of complete information on a bigger amount of people and is characterized in numbers or percentages. Statistical data should be collected on a regular basis. Quantitative data can be acquired by calculated by indicators of government response and program implantation. This research should include measures on numbers of prosecutions, convictions, denials of prosecutions, orders for protection issued, and re-offense data. (www.endvawnow.org) The challenges when collecting data in the Qualitative and Quantitative Research are that Qualitative more time consuming, mass data to transcribe, more difficult to code data, not applicable to widely dispersed social settings, generally only a case study with limited applicability to other situations, usually gives only nominal level data, difficult to quantify. (www.csulb.edu) It’s difficult to control for researcher bias the under and non-reporting of violence against women, lack of data collection on certain types of violence against women (http://www.un.org) Quantitative Research are problems that are investigated in depth from a large scale of elements, when this occurs quantitative measures can be too insubstantial. To fully understand the realm one might try cultural approaches with interviews, thorough case studies and other qualitative techniques. (www.sagepub.com) References:
Conducting research, data Collection and Analysis http://www.endvawnow.org/en/articles/322-conducting-research-data-collection-and-analysis-.html
Violence against women: a statistical overview, challenges and gaps in data collection and methodology and approaches for overcoming them. (April 2012) http://www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/egm/vaw-stat-2005/docs/final-report-vaw-stats.pdf
Ellsberg, Mary and Heise, Lori 2005, Researching Violence against Women http://www.path.org/publications/files/GBV_rvaw_complete.pdf Richie, Beth 2004, Research on Violence against Women and Family Violence: The Challenges and the Promise https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/199731.pdf
Data Collection Strategies http://www.csulb.edu/~msaintg/ppa696/696quali.htm
Introduction to quantitative research http://www.sagepub.com/upm-data/36869_muijs.pdf
The relationship with crime and victimization in prostitution, and how to help reduce it will yield many ways to gather research. There are published research papers from local and federal agencies. Interviews can be conducted on the subject with law enforcement, or even with a prostitute. One can even use legal records that are open to the public. There are resources everywhere. Data from statistics, state and foreign penal codes on prostitution, can be compared and scrutinized to some up with ideas on how the situation has become so bad, and how to ease it. Analyzing data is not the problem here, but putting it into practical use can be problematic: for example, many managers (pimps), and such will not want to legalize the trade because they would have to treat the prostitutes better, and pay taxes on services rendered. There are some some difficulties in collecting the different kinds of qualitative and quantitative data. There could be problems in scheduling. The process can be very time consuming, and on most projects, that can be a big problem. There could be issues of bias for any reason. Last, it could be hard to get sufficient responses (pellinstitute.org) References http://toolkit.pellinstitute.org/evaluation-guide/collect-data/determine-collection-method/ Anthony DeSoma: retired judge; Heald College (Stockton, CA) Criminal Justice Program Director
Discussion Board 1
Research and describe 5 data collection techniques in your own words. Be sure to cite any sources you used in APA format.
Answer the following questions:
Why is the examination of collected data so important?
How are statistics used in the field of criminal justice?
There are so many ways to collect data that do not involve the common ways in a direct manner. We as individual people collect and store our memories in a few ways, and that is all data as well. Many people use their own life experiences when using data to find a solution to something, or help others in some way, or all the above. I have found 5 ways that are pretty common, and they are: 1- Documents; used to identify trends in research and practice. To perform analysis through reports and other forms of recorded data. 2- Observation; watching behavior and interactions of people or wildlife to compile data. 3- Survey- to learn something about what people think about some kind of motivation, and identity the relationship between motivation and satisfaction. 4- Experimental- to gain data through controlled conditions such as a group test. 5- Multi-method Approach- a combination …show more content…
of 2 or more other methods of data collection to create a better definition of the focus concept. The examination of data is important on so many levels to so many organizations (public and private). Data helps to predict an outcome in the popularity of a product. It helps to track the movements, and methods of criminal activity and the organizations who perform them. It helps in sports, and in schools. If you pick a subject, there will be someone examining data about the subject to not only improve it, but to help decide where the best places to market it, or to observe the subject. The use of statistics in criminal justice is intrinsic in the field. It is used by every agency (even the private sector) to address the many types of crime, to decide how to best use the recourses that are available. Statistics are used to tract criminals and criminal organizations. Statistics have made crime solving and stopping more successful.
References
Lieutenant Scott Little (California Correctional SERT Commander:retired): Heald College (Roseville, CA) Criminal Justice Program Director http://www.prm.nau.edu/prm447/methods_of_data_collection_lesson.htm Quantitative data analysis compiles statistics from police records of criminals and crimes committed, and numbers are analyzed for increases or decreases in crimes. Qualititive data analysis are used to gain deeper insight into crime data than what is available from the uniform crime reports and Meta-Data analysis uses the findings or data from multiple sources, rather than just one or one type, to study a criminal issue (Cardenas, Heidi n.d). Face-to-face interviews have the advantage of enabling the researcher to establish a rapport with potential pearticipants and gain thier cooperation. Telephone interviews are less time consuming , less expensive but the disadvantage is the response rate is not as high as a face to face interview. There are also paper and pencil questionnaires that can be sent to a large number of peole and saves the researcher time and money. Data collection is important because it helps to collect, study, record information and make decisions about important issues. It also helps to provide information regarding a specific topic or area of study (ask.com). Statistics are used to maintain and enhance each states capacity to address criminal justice issues through the collection and analysis of data (BJS.gov). References
Bureau of Justice Statistics, (n.d.). Criminal justice data improvement program. Retrieved from website: www.bjs.gov/indexicfm?ty=tp&tid=4
Cardenas, H. (n.d.). Data analysis methods in criminology. Retrieved from www.ehow.com/info_8454276_data-analysis-methods-criminology.html
Data collection methods. (n.d.). Retrieved from www.people.uwec.edu/piercech/researchmethods/data collection methods/data collection methods.htm
Why is data collection important?. (n.d.). Retrieved from www.ask.com/question/why-is-data-collection-important
Theory defines, assumes, proposes, explains, and predicts what the research outcome is likely to prove (right or wrong). It is an integrated body of propositions, assumptions, and definitions that are related in explaining and predicting relationships between two or more variables. Theory could be any of the following: deductive inductive grounded axiomatic
On the other hand, hypotheses are statements or assertions derived from theory that can be tested by scientific inquiry and that are capable of being refuted, and their tests may result in support or nonsupport for the theory from which they were derived.
Prepare a 5–7-page paper that address the following questions:
What are the key differences between the 4 identified types of research theories above?
Is any one type of theory more valid than the others? Why or why not?
What are the differences and similarities (if any) between theory and hypothesis?
What are variables, and why are they important components of theoretical schemes?
Lakeisha Andrews
CRJS405-Resubmit
American Intercontinental University
Theories and Hypothesis
A hypothesis consists either of a suggested explanation for an observable phenomenon or of a reasoned proposal predicting a possible causal correlation among multiple phenomena. In science, a theory is a well-substantiated, unifying explanation for a set of verified, proven hypotheses. (Hypothesis vs. Theory). This paper will focus on four types of research theories known as: deductive, inductive, grounded and axiomatic. I will discuss the differences and similarities between theories and hypothesis and if one type of theory is more valid than the others. This paper will also focus on variables and why they are important components of theoretical schemes. Deductive research works from the general to the more specific.
This sometimes could be called the “top-down” approach. The top-down approach is when the researcher starts at the top with a very broad spectrum of information and they work their way down to a specific conclusion (Inductive & Deductive). For instance, a researcher starts with a theory of a topic of their interests. They will then narrow that down into more specific hypotheses that can be tested. The hypotheses are then narrowed down even further when observations are collected to test the hypotheses. This ultimately leads the researcher to be able to test the hypotheses with specific data, leading to a confirmation (or not) of the original theory and arriving at a conclusion (Deductive versus
Inductive). Inductive reasoning works the other way. It moves from specific observations to broader generalizations and theories. This can be called a bottom up approach (Inductive & Deductive). The researcher begins with specific observations and measures, begins to then detect patterns and regularities, formulate some tentative hypotheses to explore, and finally ends up developing some general conclusions or theories (Deductive versus Inductive). The differences in these two theories are inductive reasoning is more open-ended and exploratory, especially during the early stages. Deductive reasoning is narrow and is generally used to test or confirm hypotheses (Deductive versus Inductive). Arguments based on laws, rules and accepted principles are generally used for Deductive
Reasoning. Observations tend to be used for Inductive Arguments ( Inductive & Deductive). Grounded theory is a research method which operates almost in a reverse fashion from traditional social science research. Rather than beginning with a hypothesis, the first step is data collection, through a variety of methods. From the data collected, the key points are marked with a series of codes which are extracted from the text. The codes are grouped into similar concepts in order to make them more workable (Grounded theory). Axiomatic research is when reliable and predictable evaluations can be obtained. Scientific points are used to make research predict exactly what will happen. One example of this is Newton’s Theory of Gravity. Scientific methods were used to determine what would happen to the apple when it fell. Scientifically, this could always be predicted to happen when researching gravity. (Thompson, 2006).
I don’t feel one theory is more valid than the other. Depending on the type of research that is being conducted will determine the right kind of theory for that particular subject. A hypothesis consists either of a suggested explanation for an observable phenomenon or of a reasoned proposal predicting a possible causal correlation among multiple phenomena. In science, a theory is a well-substantiated, unifying explanation for a set of verified, proven hypotheses (Hypothesis vs. Theory). As opposed to theory, a hypothesis needs to be testable and falsifiable. Both theories and hypothesis are ideas that can be used in research. They both can be tested to get an answer of a proposed question. Both hypothesis and theories can be scientific. All research projects are based around variables. Variable is a measurable characteristic that varies. It may change from group to group, person to person, or even within one person over time. The variable can be a number, a name, or anything where the value can change (Research Methodology). Independent variables, dependent variables, and confounding variables are three variables used in research. The "dependent variable" represents the output or effect, or is tested to see if it is the effect. The "independent variables" represent the inputs or causes, or are tested to see if they are the cause. Other variables may also be observed for various reasons. Any variable that can potentially play a role in the outcome of a study but which is not part of the study is called a confounding variable (Dependent and Independent variables).
References: Hypothesis vs. Theory. (n.d). Retrieved from: http://www.diffen.com/difference/Hypothesis_vs_Theory
Burney, S.M. (2008). Inductive and deductive research approach. Retrieved from:http://www.drburney.net/INDUCTIVE%20&%20DEDUCTIVE%20RESEARCH%20APPROACH%2006032008
Crossman, A. Deductive reasoning versus Inductive reasoning. Retrieved from: http://sociology.about.com/od/Research/a/Deductive-Reasoning-Versus-Inductive-Reasoning.htm
Ground Theory. (n.d). Retrieved from: http://en.wikipedia.org
Thompson, K. (2006). Methodology of Theory Construction. Retrieved from: http//www.indiana.edu/pdf
Research Methodolgy. (n.d). Retrieved from: http://explorable.com/research-methodology
Dependent and Independent variables. (n.d). Retrieved from: http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Dependent_and_independent_variables
Individual post 2
Quantitative design should address the descriptive and the inferential statistical analysis that will be used to analyze the data. Qualitative design needs should define how the data will be organized, what trends will be looked at, and how differences and similarities will be identified.
Explain the various means available to you for gathering data on the topic you have chosen.
Explain at least 3 different means of collecting appropriate data and how you would analyze it.
What challenges exist when collecting quantitative data?
What challenges exist when collecting qualitative data?
Data can be collected on a number of significant fundamentals when it involves to domestic violence, its contingent on the type and range of the domestic violence. This contains the end result and costs associated with domestic violence. It also includes the help that survivors would need. Public officials, service providers and others that are either responsible for implementing the law or targeted in an intervention. Data can also be separated into components for more specific information by age, residence, environment and ethnicity/race or socio-economic level. (http://www.endvawnow.org)
Methods for normal data collection and analysis can contain collaborations amid government, international organizations, civil society and academic or research institutions at both the national and subnational levels. The most familiar study and data collection methods on domestic violence against women include Qualitative Researchand Qualitative research. This includes speedy evaluations or detailed surveys aimed at a group or one person inside a populace and provides more specific information on a smaller scale of people. (http://www.un.org)
Qualitative research doesn’t collect statics on the occurrence of domestic violence against women and girls, but can brings forth the women’s encounters with domestic violence. Interviews with survivors, advocates, attorneys, police, prosecutors, judges, probation officers, health professionals, and social service providers helps raise the awareness about the circumstances in which domestic violence takes place and recognizes the responses to domestic violence as well as holes in services. (Richie, 2004)Qualitative research procedures help to enlighten the policies or the program growth, this can also be used for observing and assessment of interventions. (Ellsberg and Heise, 2005) Quantitative Research, can have surveys or studies created on a populace or certain group within the populace, it often produces a smaller amount of complete information on a bigger amount of people and is characterized in numbers or percentages. Statistical data should be collected on a regular basis. Quantitative data can be acquired by calculated by indicators of government response and program implantation. This research should include measures on numbers of prosecutions, convictions, denials of prosecutions, orders for protection issued, and re-offense data. (www.endvawnow.org) The challenges when collecting data in the Qualitative and Quantitative Research are that Qualitative more time consuming, mass data to transcribe, more difficult to code data, not applicable to widely dispersed social settings, generally only a case study with limited applicability to other situations, usually gives only nominal level data, difficult to quantify. (www.csulb.edu) It’s difficult to control for researcher bias the under and non-reporting of violence against women, lack of data collection on certain types of violence against women (http://www.un.org) Quantitative Research are problems that are investigated in depth from a large scale of elements, when this occurs quantitative measures can be too insubstantial. To fully understand the realm one might try cultural approaches with interviews, thorough case studies and other qualitative techniques. (www.sagepub.com) References:
Conducting research, data Collection and Analysis http://www.endvawnow.org/en/articles/322-conducting-research-data-collection-and-analysis-.html
Violence against women: a statistical overview, challenges and gaps in data collection and methodology and approaches for overcoming them. (April 2012) http://www.un.org/womenwatch/daw/egm/vaw-stat-2005/docs/final-report-vaw-stats.pdf
Ellsberg, Mary and Heise, Lori 2005, Researching Violence against Women http://www.path.org/publications/files/GBV_rvaw_complete.pdf Richie, Beth 2004, Research on Violence against Women and Family Violence: The Challenges and the Promise https://www.ncjrs.gov/pdffiles1/nij/199731.pdf
Data Collection Strategies http://www.csulb.edu/~msaintg/ppa696/696quali.htm
Introduction to quantitative research http://www.sagepub.com/upm-data/36869_muijs.pdf
The relationship with crime and victimization in prostitution, and how to help reduce it will yield many ways to gather research. There are published research papers from local and federal agencies. Interviews can be conducted on the subject with law enforcement, or even with a prostitute. One can even use legal records that are open to the public. There are resources everywhere. Data from statistics, state and foreign penal codes on prostitution, can be compared and scrutinized to some up with ideas on how the situation has become so bad, and how to ease it. Analyzing data is not the problem here, but putting it into practical use can be problematic: for example, many managers (pimps), and such will not want to legalize the trade because they would have to treat the prostitutes better, and pay taxes on services rendered. There are some some difficulties in collecting the different kinds of qualitative and quantitative data. There could be problems in scheduling. The process can be very time consuming, and on most projects, that can be a big problem. There could be issues of bias for any reason. Last, it could be hard to get sufficient responses (pellinstitute.org) References http://toolkit.pellinstitute.org/evaluation-guide/collect-data/determine-collection-method/ Anthony DeSoma: retired judge; Heald College (Stockton, CA) Criminal Justice Program Director