Question 5

Focus group collects firsthand data.

Focus groups are a qualitative research method that involves gathering a small group of individuals to discuss and share their opinions on a specific topic, allowing researchers to collect firsthand data directly from participants.

A) Focus group

This option is correct because focus groups are designed specifically to collect qualitative data directly from participants. The discussions and interactions in a focus group provide insights that reflect the participants’ experiences and opinions, making it a primary source of firsthand information.

B) Government report

Government reports typically consist of data that has been collected and analyzed by governmental agencies. While they can provide valuable information, they do not collect firsthand data as they summarize existing research or statistics rather than obtaining new insights directly from individuals.

C) Trade journal

Trade journals publish articles and research findings relevant to specific industries, often based on secondary data. They synthesize and report on findings from original studies but do not engage in firsthand data collection themselves.

D) Internal sales record

Internal sales records are documents that track sales performance and activities within an organization. These records are generated from existing data rather than through direct interaction with individuals, making them a secondary source rather than one that collects firsthand data.

Conclusion

The focus group is the only option that directly involves collecting firsthand data through participant interaction and discussion. All other options rely on previously gathered information or established data, thereby failing to meet the criterion of firsthand data collection.