Res 320 - Foundations of Research

RES 320 - Foundations of Research

Chapter 7

2. Define the distinctions between primary, secondary, and tertiary sources in a secondary search.

Primary sources is defined in our text book as "original works of research or raw data without interpretation or pronouncements that represent an official opinion or position" (2006). Primary sources are always the most accurate because the information has not been changed or misinterpreted by a second party. Primary sources include memos, letters, interviews, and speeches; these can be in audio, video, or written formats. Secondary source is defined in our text book as "interpretations of primary data" (2006). Materials such as handbooks, magazines, newspaper, and encyclopedias are considered secondary sources. The writers of these materials go to primary sources for their information however when viewed by a third party it is considered a secondary source. Tertiary sources is defined in our text book as "an interpretation of a secondary source but generally are represented by indexes, bibliographies, and other finding aids (e.g., Internet search engines)" (2006). Not all information retrieved from research is equal in value. Primary sources are more valuable than secondary sources and tertiary sources.

5. Some researchers find that their sole sources are secondary data. Why might this be? Name some management questions for which secondary data sources are probably the ones feasible.

Some researchers find their information from encyclopedias, textbooks, handbooks, and even the news. These researchers are not going directly to the primary source to gather their information. Because they are going to a secondary source the information may not be as accurate and can be misinterpreted. In my organization we have different departments that specialized in different areas of work. One example of effectively using a secondary source in my organization is when I need an answer from another department. The person in that specific department knows all the details first hand, instead of doing the work myself to get an answer I rely on them to provide me with accurate secondary information. Another example is when I need to obtain monthly utility meter readings and charges for my tenants. I need to rely on the Department of Water and Power to obtain the correct meter readings as well as my engineers and my assistant to obtain all the correct billing charges. In these cases the secondary source is the most feasible.

7. What problems of secondary data quality must researchers face? How can they deal with them?

Researchers who often use secondary data to gather their information may face some problems because the information collected is not from the primary source. Information for a secondary source