Agree with a friend to each evaluate the same secondary data set obtained via the Internet. This could be one of the data sets you found when undertaking Question 8.6. Evaluate independently your secondary data set with regard to its overall and precise suitability using the checklist in Box 8.12 . Do not forget to make notes regarding your answers to each of the points raised in the checklist. Discuss your answers with your friend.

Data from in Question 8.6

Choose an appropriate information gateway from Table 8.2 to search the Internet for secondary data on a topic which you are currently studying as part of your course.
a ‘Add to favourites’ (bookmark) those sites which you think appear most relevant.
b Make notes regarding any secondary data that are likely to prove useful to either seminars for which you have to prepare, or coursework you have still to undertake.

Data from in Box 8.12

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✓ Does the data set cover the population that is the subject of your research? ✔ Does the data set cover the geographical area that is the subject of your research? Evaluating your secondary data sources ✔ Can data about the population that is the subject of your research be separated from unwanted data? ✔ Are the data for the right time period or suffi- ciently up to date? ✓ Are all the data you require to answer your research question(s) and meet your objectives available? ✔ Are the variables defined clearly? Box 8.12 Checklist Overall suitability ✓ Does the data set contain the information you require to answer your research question(s) and meet your objectives? Do the measures used match those you require? Is the data set a proxy for the data you really need?