Which method is used to collect objective quantitative data?

The method that is used to collect objective quantitative data is behavior counts. This approach involves systematically observing and tallying specific behaviors or actions, which allows for the collection of numerical data that can be analyzed statistically. Since behavior counts focus on measurable events, such as the frequency of a specific behavior occurring within a certain time frame, the data collected is objective in nature and can be quantified to derive results.

In contrast, interviews, open-ended questionnaires, and focus groups tend to produce qualitative data. Interviews often elicit personal insights and opinions, which are harder to quantify. Open-ended questionnaires allow respondents to provide detailed responses, leading to varied interpretations that are also difficult to measure objectively. Focus groups involve group discussions where data may be subjective, reflecting the varied perspectives of individuals. These methods, while valuable in-depth tools for understanding attitudes or experiences, do not inherently provide the structured numerical data that behavior counts do.