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Reliability and the Validity of a data collection tool
It is important to establish the reliability and validity of a data collection tool in order to anticipate the likely shortcomings (Roberts et al, 2006). A data collection tool in quantitative research can take the form of experimentation, surveys, or searching on the internet. Knowing the levels of reliability and validity of these research tools will save the researcher a lot of time, which would otherwise be wasted trying to solve problems as they unfold while using the tool. For instance, when a researcher is using online sources in quantitative research, he should be aware that the source is not entirely reliable because some information may not be found online or information found online may have restricted access. When the researcher is aware of the shortcomings of his data collection tool beforehand, he can plan on way to maneuver the hurdle before starting the research.
Knowing the reliability and validity of a data collection tool will enable the researcher to combine several tools in order to compensate for the foreseen shortcomings (Robert et al, 2006). The various methods used in quantitative research have their strengths and weaknesses. A good researcher will use the advantages of tool A to counter the shortcomings of tool B.
Using the above example of using online sources as a data collection tool, the researcher is likely to hit a gridlock when he realizes that some of the vital information he needs is not available online. In such a case, he will supplement his data collection tool by visiting the local library to access the data. Alternatively, the researcher can interview people in a position to know the information and then record. The researcher is able to combine the two tools because he was aware of their shortcoming beforehand.
Reference
Roberts, P., Priest, H., & Traynor, M. (2006). Reliability and validity in research. Nursing standard Journal, 20 (44), 41-45