Nature of Data

The nature of data can be described as:

i) Numerical data: All data is Sciences are derived by measurement and stated in numerical values. “Most of the time their nature is numerical”. Even in semi-quantitative data, affirmative and negative answers are coded as ‘1’ and ‘0’ for obtaining numerical data, except in the cases of qualitative, graphic and symbolic data, and so on.

ii) Descriptive data: Some qualitative data in Sciences are expressed in terms of definitive statements concerning objects. These may be viewed as descriptive data. Here, the nature of data is descriptive.

iii) Graphic and Symbolic data: Graphic and Symbolic data are modes of presentation. They enable users to grasp data by visual perception. The nature of data, in these cases, is graphic.

Likewise, it is possible to determine the nature of data as either enumerative or descriptive in nature. Whenever the data are derived by enumeration, their nature is enumerative. The data that describe the phenomena are descriptive.

Enumerative data: Most data usually used in Social Sciences are enumerative in nature. However, they are refined with the help of statistical techniques to make them more meaningful. They are known as statistical data. This explains the use of different scales of measurement whereby they are graded.

Descriptive data: All qualitative data usually used in Social Sciences can be descriptive in nature. These can be in the form of definitive statements. However, if necessary, numerical values can be assigned to descriptive statements which may then be reduced to numerical data.

Properties of Data

Following are the properties of data:

i) Amenability to use: From the dictionary meaning of data it is learnt that data are facts used in deciding something. In short, data are meant to be used as a basis for arriving at definitive conclusions. They are not required, if they are not amenable to use. The use may differ with the context. Amenability to use nevertheless remains a characteristic of data.

ii) Clarity: According to the CODATA definition, data are a crystalised presentation. This means data should necessarily display clarity, so essential for communicating the essence of the matter. Without clarity, the meaning desired to be communicated will remain hidden.

iii) Accuracy: Data should be real, complete and accurate. Accuracy is thus an essential property of data. Since data offer a basis for deciding something, they must necessarily be accurate if valid conclusions are to be drawn.

iv) Essence: Many a times, large quantities of data are collected which cannot be presented, nor is it necessary to present them in that form. They have to be compressed and refined. Data so refined can present the essence or