Survey tools are for collection of data on questions from information which you have already gathered. Questionnaires are a type of survey tool used for observational data collection in surveys. They feature a group of questions or hypotheses framed to get you closer to an accurate answer or a response that can lead you to the answer you are searching for. The hypotheses stated in the questionnaires can either be in the negative or the affirmative form.
Researchers use medical research tools to investigate health-related issues. These tools help capture physiological responses of a person such as the blood pressure when he is shocked or signs of withdrawal of body tissues. An example of a medical tool in observational data collection is a Petri dish. Researchers use Petri dishes to place specimens for observational studies; other medical tools include magnetic resonance imaging for taking X-rays of individuals, and gloves for protecting the person carrying out the research.
Reference tools refer to the materials used once you complete your data collection process. For example, you might want to determine the history of a place and use the information to write a report and analysis. Books and online materials are an important source of referencing materials. Additionally, previously compiled notes serve as reference tools for your data analysis.
When carrying out an observational data collection routine, you need other tools for recording and storing your information. You can store your observed data in a portable device such as a flash disk or an external hard disk if the data are numerous in quantity. You may also decide to use pens and notebooks for your data referencing depending on the quantity of the notes and suitability.