For my primary data, Ive chosen to utilize a structured survey which, I handed out to 5 years 6 students at Auburn Public School and 10 years 7 students at Auburn Girls High School and conducted an observation of my siblings. Survey undertakers were notified that the survey would be completely confidential and that their privacy would be conserved. With this promise, the children were able to respond with more forthright and valid answers. The surveys enabled students to explore an avenue of more truthful and unambiguous answers and by expressing themselves in their responses when encouraged that their information would only be used for research intentions. The data gathered enabled me to conduct realistic and accurate tables and graphs to exemplify my findings. However, there are some disadvantages to collecting data by conducting a survey rather than using other research methodologies. For example, respondents may not feel encouraged to provide accurate and honest answers however, much reassured that their anonymity will be sealed. This can disintegrate my results and findings. On the other hand, my observation as my second research methodology, I decided to observe my two siblings ranging from 8 to 11 years of age for two days continuously. While con
ducting this observation, to have accurate data, I had to make sure that my siblings did not notice what I was doing, and thus my research was not compromised. My siblings spend more than half the day utilizing their technological devices. Observing my siblings was fascinating in that I was able to comprehend the amount of technology being used in my household. The reason why I chose to conduct an observation as one of my research methodologies is that I was able to collect first-hand data which also enabled me to see primarily from each subject their day-to-day activities with technology. This aided me in reassuring me that my collected information was accurate and that the subjects did not exaggerate or respond to the question the way they felt it should be answered. With the second and third opinions both my research methodologies did not raise any moral or ethical issues. My survey questions were structured in a way that was appropriate and suitable for the age of the students that were undertaking it, and observations did not impose on my subjects and inflict extensively on their private lives. Overall, my options for first-hand research approaches were very effective in accumulating the data I needed to complete my Independent Research Methodology.