Data Collection for Field Reports in Social Work Practice

Islam, M. Rezaul

doi:10.1007/978-3-031-56683-7_9

M. Rezaul Islam ORCID: orcid.org/0000-0002-2217-7507²

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Abstract

This chapter equips social work students with essential skills for gathering and utilizing data effectively. It begins by providing an overview of both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques, ensuring that students are well-versed in diverse methods. The chapter then focuses on the practical aspect of data collection, emphasizing the use of data collection tools and instruments to streamline the process and enhance data quality. Through this chapter, social work students gain the knowledge and skills necessary to collect, manage, and utilize data to inform their practice, enhancing their ability to make data-driven decisions in the field.

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References

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Authors and Affiliations

Institute of Social Welfare and Research, University of Dhaka, Dhaka, Bangladesh
M. Rezaul Islam

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M. Rezaul Islam
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Appendices

Review Questions

1.
What is the primary purpose of data collection in social work field practice?
2.
Name two qualitative data collection techniques discussed in this chapter and briefly explain their applications.
3.
Briefly outline the ethical considerations related to participant autonomy and privacy in data collection.
4.
Why is it beneficial to integrate mixed-methods approaches in social work field research?
5.
Discuss the role of technology in data collection for social work field practices, highlighting its advantages and potential ethical considerations.

Multiple Choice Questions

1.
What is the main advantage of utilizing mixed-methods approaches in social work field research?
1. (a)
  Simplicity in data analysis
2. (b)
  Increased depth and breadth of understanding
3. (c)
  Limited perspectives on the research question
4. (d)
  Narrow scope of data collection
2.
Which of the following is an example of a qualitative data collection technique?
1. (a)
  Surveys
2. (b)
  Statistical analysis
3. (c)
  Content analysis
4. (d)
  Standardized tests
3.
What is a key ethical consideration in technology-mediated data collection?
1. (a)
  Limited access to data
2. (b)
  Participant anonymity
3. (c)
  Informed consent
4. (d)
  Avoidance of data encryption
4.
In quantitative data collection, what method involves asking participants to respond to a series of predetermined questions?
1. (a)
  Participant observation
2. (b)
  Focus group discussions
3. (c)
  Surveys and questionnaires
4. (d)
  Key informant interviews
5.
Why is ensuring participant autonomy important in social work field research?
1. (a)
  It protects the participants’ rights and choices.
2. (b)
  It simplifies the research process.
3. (c)
  It reduces the need for informed consent.
4. (d)
  It limits the diversity of collected data.

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Islam, M.R. (2024). Data Collection for Field Reports in Social Work Practice. In: Fieldwork in Social Work. Springer, Cham. https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-56683-7_9

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DOI: https://doi.org/10.1007/978-3-031-56683-7_9
Published: 22 March 2024
Publisher Name: Springer, Cham
Print ISBN: 978-3-031-56682-0
Online ISBN: 978-3-031-56683-7
eBook Packages: Social Sciences

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