Which feature is characteristic of qualitative data collection?

Qualitative data collection is characterized by its flexibility during the data collection process. This means that researchers can adapt their approach based on the responses they receive, allowing for a more in-depth exploration of participants' thoughts, experiences, and feelings. This flexibility is essential in qualitative research because it encourages participants to express themselves freely, which can lead to richer, more nuanced data.

In contrast, quantitative data collection typically involves more structured methods such as standardized questions and random sampling. These approaches aim for uniformity and are designed to produce measurable outcomes that can be statistically analyzed. The focus in qualitative research is less on obtaining a large sample size and more on gaining deep insights from a smaller number of participants. This emphasis on flexibility allows researchers to explore topics in more detail, uncovering new dimensions of understanding that a rigid methodology might miss.