Chemistry Reference
In-Depth Information
Chapter 7
Data Collection
I need to take some samples.
Dr. Grace Augustine shortly before her untimely death in
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The primary mission of a graduate student is to collect data.
Every step performed before starting to collect data is to prepare the way to col-
lect data. To review, an idea we generate is formulated into a testable problem. The
literature we read is selected to illuminate our understanding of that problem and
then read in context of the problem. Our reading may modify our idea and force a
reformulation of the problem. Methods are selected on the basis of the criteria we
develop to test our idea and experiments are designed to give us an answer.
Every step after collecting data is to properly interpret it and to prepare us for the
next phase of data collection. The data collected are processed and analyzed to see
if the results obtained were expected or surprising. The results may need to be
verified or may suggest new experiments. Once a comprehensible body of knowl-
edge is obtained it is time to write an abstract for a conference presentation or
preparation of a manuscript for a journal article, thesis or dissertation. Every good
research project stimulates more ideas and research questions, which then continues
the cycle.
Before proceeding further, it is important to clarify some terms and their usage.
For example, “data” is defined as “factual information (as measurements or statis-
tics) used as a basis for reasoning, discussion, or calculation” and is the plural form
of “datum.” (Merriam-Webster's,
2009
) Common usage now permits the use of
“data” as either a singular collective noun (the data is) or as a plural noun (the data
are). If we run into someone who is old school, we should use the plural form as is
used in this chapter and the rest of the topic.
Although we tend to rely on scientific instruments, there are many other ways to
collect scientific data. Typically one or more instruments in the lab of a major pro-
fessor keep that lab going. They are the basis for the manuscripts coming out of the
lab and a key component in the grant proposals needed to support the lab and its
