Which term refers to data that was previously unknown and obtained directly by the researcher for a specific research project?

The term that refers to data that was previously unknown and obtained directly by the researcher for a specific research project is primary data. This type of data collection involves original research tailored to the specific objectives of the study, meaning the researcher actively gathers new information through methods such as surveys, interviews, experiments, or observations.

Primary data is valued for its specificity and relevance to the research question, as it is collected directly from the source and reflects the current context of the study. This contrasts with secondary data, which consists of previously collected data that someone else has gathered for a different purpose. Tertiary data refers to information that compiles or synthesizes primary and secondary data, often found in reports or reviews. Quantitative data, while it can include primary data, specifically pertains to numerical information that can be measured and analyzed statistically. Thus, the essence of primary data lies in its originality and direct collection by the researcher, making it a critical component in research methodology.