“Data Handling (Small and Large)”
1. Introduction
Data handling refers to the systematic process of collecting, organizing, processing, and
interpreting data to derive meaningful information for decision-making.
It is an essential quantitative skill in research, social sciences, public administration,
and applied statistics.
2. Definition
Data handling is the process of managing data from its initial collection to its
final interpretation, using appropriate techniques and tools to ensure
accuracy, reliability, and usefulness.
3. Purpose of Data Handling
● To organize data in a structured form.
● To analyze trends, patterns, and relationships.
● To make informed decisions based on evidence.
● To present results clearly for communication.
● To store and retrieve data efficiently.
4. Types of Data Handling
Data handling can be broadly classified into:
A. Small Data Handling
● Refers to datasets that are manageable using manual methods or basic software.
● Usually involves small sample sizes.
● Requires less storage space.
● Example: Attendance records of one class, survey results from 30 respondents.
B. Large Data Handling
● Refers to datasets that are too large or complex to be processed manually.
● Requires advanced computing tools and storage systems.
● Often called “Big Data” in modern contexts.
● Example: National census data, social media data analysis, health records of an
entire population.
5. Characteristics of Small Data
1. Limited volume (few KBs to MBs).
2. Easy to store in spreadsheets or paper forms.
3. Processing speed is quick.
4. Often used for small-scale projects.
5. Analysis can be done using manual calculations or basic statistical software.
6. Example tools: MS Excel, Google Sheets.
6. Characteristics of Large Data
1. High volume (GBs to TBs or more).
2. Requires large storage systems and databases.
3. High processing power needed.
4. Often involves real-time processing.
5. Used for large-scale research and policy-making.
6. Example tools: SQL databases, Python, R, Hadoop, SPSS.
7. Steps in Data Handling Process
1. Collection – Gathering data from primary or secondary sources.
2. Organization – Arranging data into tables, charts, or databases.
3. Processing – Converting raw data into meaningful form.
4. Analysis – Applying statistical or computational techniques.
5. Interpretation – Drawing conclusions from the analysis.
6. Presentation – Reporting findings using graphs, reports, and dashboards.
7. Storage – Saving data for future use.
8. Methods for Small Data Handling
● Manual tallying and counting.
● Excel spreadsheets for basic calculations.
● Descriptive statistics (mean, median, mode).
● Simple charts and graphs for visualization.
9. Methods for Large Data Handling
● Database management systems (DBMS).
● Cloud storage and distributed computing.
● Statistical programming (R, Python, SAS).
● Data mining and machine learning techniques.
● Automated dashboards for real-time monitoring.
10. Challenges in Small Data Handling
● Manual errors in entry.
● Limited scope for predictive analysis.
● May not capture overall population trends.
11. Challenges in Large Data Handling
● Data storage and backup requirements.
● Need for skilled professionals.
● Higher costs for tools and infrastructure.
● Privacy and security concerns.
12. Applications in Social Sciences
● Small data: Case studies, small community surveys, classroom performance
analysis.
● Large data: National census, health policy planning, social media sentiment
analysis.
13. Conclusion
Both small and large data handling are integral to research and decision-making.
Small data handling suits limited-scope studies and basic statistics, while large data
handling enables complex, large-scale analysis requiring advanced technology.
