In program evaluation, methods of data collection beyond first-hand research exist. Data retrieved first-hand is known as primary data, but data retrieved from preexisting sources is known as secondary data.
Primary Data Collection
Primary data sources include information collected and processed directly by the researcher, such as observations, surveys, interviews, and focus groups.
Secondary Data Collection
Secondary data sources include information retrieved through preexisting sources: research articles, Internet or library searches, etc. Preexisting data may also include records and data already within the program: publications and training materials, financial records, student/client data, performance reviews of staff, etc.
Primary and Secondary Data Source Facts
| Primary Data Source Facts | Secondary Data Source Facts |
|---|---|
| Data collected by the evaluator using methods such as observations, surveys, or interviews | Provides information if existing data on a topic or project is not current or directly applicable to the chosen evaluation questions |
| Can be more expensive and time-consuming, but it allows for more targeted data collection | Information that has already been collected, processed, and reported by another researcher or entity |
| Offers an opportunity to review any and all secondary data available before collecting primary data (saving time) | Will reveal which questions still need to be addressed and what data has yet to be collected |
| Ability to include attention checks to ensure participants are reading all the questions | No ability to conduct longitudinal studies; Smaller participant pool (~100,000 MTurk workers participate in academic studies each year); MTurk population is significantly less politically diverse, higher educated, younger, and less religious than the general US population |