Reading 1: Regarding Valid Methods of Information Collection

In the 4th week of Ms Mohana's class, we learnt about the the valid methods of information collection or should i say data gathering techniques. I found that this topic is very useful for me. From my point of view it create measurable improvements in the performance of individuals and their designing through optimising and facilitating learning, focused on the development of management and designing knowledge, skills and ability. Conducting data gathering and data analysis is therefore a prime skill for consultants and also designers since it is one of the major phase in a design hierarchy.

Well basically there are couple of data gathering techniques that Ms Mohana taught us. Here are the other examples of data gathering techniques :

• Questionnaires
• Focus groups and workshops
• Naturalistic observation
• Surveys
• Cultual probes
  
• Studying documentation
• Interviews
  

Each techique has their own requirements and also their strengths and weaknesses. For example interviews are good for exploring issues, and the positive part is that interviewer can guide interviewee if necessary. This encourages contact between interviewer and interviewee. But at the same time the down side of this technique is time consuming. Artificial environment may intimidate interviewee and so on. Same goes for the other techniques, with their own requirements we can choose which technique is more suitable in doing different kind of task.

Then finally after a little discussion with my classmates regarding his topic, we're all agree that with a proper learning and training on each of this techniques , we will be able to :

• Maximise your performance in gathering data from target audience through a range of data gathering techniques
• Prepare for, plan and conduct effective data gathering assignments with target audience
• Recognise and balance between both task and process elements when data gathering
• Appropriately use the range of different data gathering techniques/approaches
• Use your strengthened interpersonal skills in data gathering situations
• Plan, carry out and review the effectiveness of your data gathering - using a simple checklist.
  

Therefore again i strongly admit that data gathering techniques are beneficial for me in the future.