Primary data

For AQA GCSE Geography, you must undertake two geographical enquiries, each using primary data collected during fieldwork. Primary data are information collected first-hand, such as measurements, observations, counts or questionnaire responses. Existing information can support an enquiry, but it does not replace this requirement.

River fieldwork uses primary data: evidence collected first-hand at the investigation site. Numerical measurements, such as water depth and flow speed, are quantitative data. Photographs and field sketches provide qualitative data, recording what the landscape looks like.

River fieldwork uses primary data: information you collect first-hand through measurements and observations. The method should match what you want to find out. Investigating changes in channel width needs measurements at different sites; investigating factors that might influence flood risk also needs observations of the river and its surroundings.

Primary data are collected directly for the investigation. Your measurements, counts, observations and questionnaire responses are all primary data. Secondary data come from existing sources, such as published weather records, maps or information about a regeneration project.