- Using libraries, search methods (indexes, catalog's):
2).The indexes and the catalog's include number references and page numbers (usually categorized). Two disadvantages are: The books that are already published may be outdated. 2). you would physically need to get to the library; and at times the condition of the weather will be poor.
2. Using the internet, search methods (search engines):
one advantage is you can use search engines such as Google or askjeeves to go on to Wikipedia which will provide you with useful information such as a detail history of what you're researching, also what you are researching will be likely to broken down in different sections for further debt. Another advantage is that the info will come up quicker-looking for page numbers in the content wont be required. One disadvantage is that information might not have been updated or corrected so it isn't very reliable. 2). sometimes the search engine wont be able to interpret what you mean and can give you useless information (you could get info for something you did not want).
3. Photocopying and highlighting key quotes and images:
one advantage of photocopying is that you will have more than one copy of your information research. A second advantage would be when highlighting key quotes and images it reminds you of its importance to know that particular information.
A disadvantage of photocopying is that the information may not print out clearly enough for it to be readable. Another disadvantage is that the text may smudge when you highlight key information.
4. Making notes:
This could be useful as it will help you to remember important information in the simplest written form. Another advantage would be you have written it in your own words so it would be easier to understand with more complex notes it would be far more difficult.
Two disadvantage: 1). if you do not have very good writing then later on when you come to revise upon the subject you wont understand what you've written, which wont benefit you in any way. 2). lost notes and you may not feel like revising from your notes.
5. Interviews (written, recorded):
Two advantages: Its more of an interesting way of collecting your research, rather than gathering detailed notes (and if you don't enjoy writing). A second advantage would be you will get a primary view point rather than a secondary.
Two disadvantages: 1). The person would probably ramble on and wouldn't give you an exact answer to your question. 2). Its required you think about the questions you want to ask otherwise you will get a answer that only requires a 'yes' or 'no'
6. Observations: One advantage of observation is you can watch the situation around you, whilst taking detailed notes, (listening to other peoples opinions).
One disadvantage is whilst observing others you're less likely to get involved with the work. another disadvantage is that your mind wont be on the observing. Another disadvantage is that people will talk all at once and you wont be able to take necessary notes that you require.
7. Questionnaires:
Two advantages: you can see peoples interest/preference with statistics. A second advantage is that you can get primary evidence. One disadvantage is that some information may not be clear enough to understand or the setting of charts may not give you any particular answer, (if the charts include things like: most likely, probably etc...). A second disadvantage is that the chart information may not be updated.
8. Surveys:
Two advantages: one advantage is that you can collect your information using the phone, internet or by post. Another advantage is that you can get loads of ideas and generalizations.
Two disadvantage: people may not understand the question and give strange answers. A second disadvantage is that they may not always be truthful about their answer.
9. Focus groups:
Two advantages: More interesting than to work by yourself to collect data. A second advantage is that helps people build connections. Two disadvantages is that findings may not represent the views of larger segments of the population. Must require good facilitation skills and can be expensive/ time consuming.
10. Meetings:
Two advantages: one to one interaction with the person. 2). Make intellectual notes with the contribution of others. Two disadvantages: you can get nervous. 2). make a bad impression with the person you had a meeting with.
