Which term describes non-numeric information collected from interviews and focus groups?

• A. Qualitative Data
• B. Quantitative Data
• C. Descriptive Statistics
• D. Survey Data

Answer: (A)

Non-numeric information gathered from interviews and focus groups is qualitative data. It captures meanings, experiences, opinions, and themes described in people’s own words rather than numbers. This contrasts with quantitative data, which consists of counts or measurements that can be analyzed statistically. Descriptive statistics summarize numerical data, not the type of information itself. Survey data refers to data collected via surveys and can include both qualitative and quantitative responses; however, when the data come from interviews or focus groups, they are typically qualitative in nature.