ACCA Performance Management (F5) Certification Practice Exam

Which type of research involves interaction with participants to gather data?

1. Secondary research

2. Quantitative research

3. Field research

4. Desktop research

The correct answer is: Field research

Field research is characterized by direct interaction with participants to collect data. This type of research involves gathering information in a real-world setting, often through methods such as surveys, interviews, or observations. By engaging with participants, researchers can gain insights that are often rich in context and detail, allowing for a deeper understanding of the subject matter. This first-hand data collection is particularly valuable in generating qualitative insights, exploring behaviors, attitudes, and experiences in ways that secondary or desktop research cannot achieve. Secondary research, on the other hand, involves analyzing existing data that has been collected by others, which means there is no direct connection with participants. Quantitative research primarily focuses on numerical data that can be statistically analyzed, and while it can involve participant interaction for data collection (like surveys), it does not inherently require it as field research does. Desktop research, similar to secondary research, relies on existing sources of information compiled through various forms of media and academic literature, without any participant interaction. Thus, the distinctive aspect of field research is its emphasis on engaging with individuals directly in their environment, making it the appropriate choice for this question.