Data Collection Methods for Monitoring in Criminal justice

Data Collection Methods for Monitoring
Name
Institution
Course Code
Professor
Date
Data Collection Methods for Monitoring
Observational Methods
Strengths
It is the simplest method of data collection. It only involves observing and recording observable elements of the subject. It is an important and often the best way to monitor the subject with observable changesCITATION Jha19 \l 1033 (Price, Jhangiani, Chiang, Cuttler, & Leighton, 2019). Different observational methods can be applied as per need. Secondly, this method provides primary data. Primary data is important because it is first-hand and more reliable than secondary data.
Weaknesses
It is subject to the biases of the observer. For example, in monitoring some relative information, the observer may exaggerate reporting the observable phenomenon CITATION Jha19 \l 1033 (Price, Jhangiani, Chiang, Cuttler, & Leighton, 2019). Different researchers can record different data from the same observation. Secondly, it is expensive to collect the data. The process requires the individual to be physically present or use tools to collect the data, i.e., binoculars, magnifying glass, etc. The individual and the tools can be very expensive for some studies. Additionally, the observer has to be physically present to collect the data. Travel expenses and the use of tools can easily translate to very high data collection costs.
Service Records
Service Record means an individual, tangible, and legible file that records service-related activities CITATION Law \l 1033 (Law Insider, n.d.).
Strengths
Service record is a primary source of information hence credible and reliable for researchers. However, the service recording process must be done diligently to create a comprehensive and reliable data source for monitoring. If proper recording processes and tools are used, the data collected is credible and of good quality.
Weaknesses
If they are not well documented, they can leave gaps in knowledge that could be crucial. For example, if a crucial event/activity or the dossier has omitted some time frame without proper explanation, it casts doubt on the reliability of the data collected. For example, a service record data of a machine that lacks key data on performance for a duration of time, repairs, etc., is ...