Secondary Research

Definition

Secondary research is the process of gathering existing information that has already been collected and published by others, rather than generating new data. This type of research often includes analyzing articles, reports, books, and other resources to gain insights and context about a specific subject or topic, making it an essential part of the research process, especially in narrative documentary production.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Secondary research can save time and resources by utilizing data that has already been collected, allowing for quicker insights into a topic.
2. It is often used to complement primary research, providing background information and context that can enhance the understanding of newly collected data.
3. Sources for secondary research include academic journals, government reports, industry publications, newspapers, and online databases.
4. Critical evaluation of the reliability and credibility of sources is essential in secondary research to ensure accurate conclusions.
5. Secondary research can help identify trends, patterns, and connections within existing data that might not be immediately apparent through primary research alone.

Review Questions

• How does secondary research support the development of a narrative documentary?
  • Secondary research supports the development of a narrative documentary by providing context, background information, and existing insights into the subject matter. It helps filmmakers understand the historical and social landscape surrounding their topic and identify key themes and narratives that resonate with audiences. By analyzing previously published materials, filmmakers can construct a more informed narrative that draws on established knowledge while integrating their unique perspective.
• In what ways can the quality of secondary research impact the overall effectiveness of a documentary film?
  • The quality of secondary research directly impacts the overall effectiveness of a documentary film by influencing its credibility and depth. Well-researched documentaries are likely to present more accurate information and compelling narratives, which engage viewers and establish trust. Conversely, poorly conducted secondary research can lead to misinformation or biased perspectives that undermine the documentary's message. Therefore, thorough vetting of sources and critical analysis of existing literature are crucial for producing impactful films.
• Evaluate how secondary research can contribute to identifying gaps in knowledge for future primary research in documentary production.
  • Secondary research plays a vital role in identifying gaps in knowledge for future primary research in documentary production by highlighting areas where existing literature is lacking or contradictory. By reviewing current findings and analyses, filmmakers can uncover unanswered questions or underexplored themes that merit further investigation. This process not only informs the direction of future primary research but also enhances the overall storytelling potential of documentaries by addressing these identified gaps with fresh perspectives and new data.

Related terms

Primary Research:

Primary research involves collecting new data directly from original sources through methods like interviews, surveys, and observations.

Literature Review: A literature review is a comprehensive overview of existing research and publications relevant to a particular topic, often used to identify gaps in knowledge and inform further study.

Data Analysis: Data analysis is the process of systematically applying statistical or logical techniques to describe and illustrate, condense and recap, and evaluate data.