Question

Describe the advantages and disadvantages of observation, interviews, and the use of historical data as methods for conducting a needs assessment.

Answer 1

Advantages and disadvantages of Observation:

Advantages

• It is best for human behaviour study

• Data collection is more accurate and reliable than another method

• A direct method for collecting and analyzing data

Disadvantages

• Misinterpretation of behaviour

• Time-consuming

• Wrong perception and wrong conclusion

Advantages and disadvantages of Interview:

Advantages

• Detailed information collecting

• Descriptive data collection

• Reliable and valid data collection from an experienced person

Disadvantages

• Chances for getting biased data

• Can affect emotions through the question

• Not cost and time effective

Advantages and disadvantages of utilizing historical data:

Advantages

• Able to study evidence from past

• New way adoption for research on the same topic in past

• Verifying facts with previous information to understand data reliability and validity

Disadvantages

• Old data and wrong interpretation

• Losing of previous data

• Threat controlling to internal validity is possible