The term that refers to data that has been collected for purposes other than the specific problem at hand is secondary data. This kind of data is typically gathered from existing sources, such as previous research studies, reports, or databases, and is utilized in a new context or study.
Using secondary data can be beneficial because it saves time and resources, as the information has already been collected and analyzed. Researchers often employ secondary data when they want to supplement their own data collection efforts, perform comparative analyses, or gather background information on a topic. It enables a broader understanding of a problem without the cost and effort associated with collecting new data.
In contrast, primary data refers to data that is collected specifically for the current research project and allows for more tailored insights. Qualitative data is related to non-numerical information, usually focusing on the qualities or characteristics of a subject, and experimental data entails results derived from controlled experiments testing specific hypotheses. Each of these types serves distinct purposes in research methodologies.