Research Methodology and Method of Data Collection

This chapter defines the methods of data collection and explains the motives for performing the macro and firm surveys and selection of a case study, the selection of the sample and composition and operation of the surveys. We explain that the data from the firm and macro surveys provides us with the required information, which is particularly useful from both the analytical and policy perspectives and useful for presenting a macro-micro comparative analysis to identify the causes and consequences of the skills problem, and the plans and policies for skill development from the macro-micro perspectives. One advantage of the macro survey is that it examines the problem after integrating two different perspectives of policy makers and experts, another advantage is that it provides some useful information, particularly from both the analytical and policy perspectives. Moreover, the data evaluates upskilling efforts, examines the causes and consequences of a deficient educational system, training provision, skills mismatch and transfer of knowledge, and also suggests relevant short and long run plans and policies for the enhancement of skill level, education, training, transfer of knowledge and technological upgrading. The coverage of the firm survey has the advantage of enabling us to compare between firms according to two criteria, i.e. the size of employment and industrial activity.