, PPH4804 ASSIGNMENT 1 2026
Due Date : 28 APRIL 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Identify and explain the main sources of data (10 marks)
The main sources of data in research, statistics, and population studies are generally
classified into primary data sources, secondary data sources, and administrative (or
institutional) data sources, with some academic frameworks also recognising tertiary
sources as supplementary reference materials. These sources differ in terms of origin,
reliability, level of processing, cost, and intended use, but together they form the backbone
of empirical research and evidence-based planning in both public and private sectors. The
selection of a data source is not a neutral decision; it directly influences the validity,
reliability, and applicability of research findings in policy formulation and academic inquiry
(Kothari, 2014).
Primary data sources refer to data that is collected directly from the original source for a
specific research purpose. This means the data has not been previously collected, analysed,
or interpreted by another party. Primary data is typically gathered through methods such as
structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, direct observation,
field surveys, and experimental research. The defining characteristic of primary data is its
originality and specificity, meaning the researcher has full control over the design of the
data collection instruments, sampling techniques, and measurement criteria. For example,
during a population census, enumerators directly visit households to collect demographic
information such as age, gender, education level, income, and migration status (Statistics
South Africa, 2022). This makes primary data highly reliable for targeted research because it
is tailored to specific objectives. However, despite its strengths, primary data collection is
often extremely resource-intensive, requiring large budgets, trained personnel, logistical
Due Date : 28 APRIL 2026
QUESTION 1
1.1 Identify and explain the main sources of data (10 marks)
The main sources of data in research, statistics, and population studies are generally
classified into primary data sources, secondary data sources, and administrative (or
institutional) data sources, with some academic frameworks also recognising tertiary
sources as supplementary reference materials. These sources differ in terms of origin,
reliability, level of processing, cost, and intended use, but together they form the backbone
of empirical research and evidence-based planning in both public and private sectors. The
selection of a data source is not a neutral decision; it directly influences the validity,
reliability, and applicability of research findings in policy formulation and academic inquiry
(Kothari, 2014).
Primary data sources refer to data that is collected directly from the original source for a
specific research purpose. This means the data has not been previously collected, analysed,
or interpreted by another party. Primary data is typically gathered through methods such as
structured questionnaires, in-depth interviews, focus group discussions, direct observation,
field surveys, and experimental research. The defining characteristic of primary data is its
originality and specificity, meaning the researcher has full control over the design of the
data collection instruments, sampling techniques, and measurement criteria. For example,
during a population census, enumerators directly visit households to collect demographic
information such as age, gender, education level, income, and migration status (Statistics
South Africa, 2022). This makes primary data highly reliable for targeted research because it
is tailored to specific objectives. However, despite its strengths, primary data collection is
often extremely resource-intensive, requiring large budgets, trained personnel, logistical
