NCJ Number
212045
Journal
Crime Prevention and Community Safety: An International Journal Volume: 7 Issue: 4 Dated: 2005 Pages: 7-18
Date Published
2005
Length
12 pages
Annotation
This article examines the pros and cons in utilizing the Internet as a vehicle in the collection of data for criminology and criminal justice research.
Abstract
Fast-developing technology offers a multitude of new and improving research tools for the social researcher, among these is the Internet. This article draws on the literature to explore possible applications of the Internet in criminology and criminal justice research, and to flag its key benefits and disadvantages, as well as possible ways to prevent or resolve problems. Even though the literature cited represents an almost exhaustive overview of current research on the use of the Internet in social science research, further research is necessary given that Internet users may respond differently to different questionnaire designs and inducements. Unless criminology and criminal justice researchers have the literature to support them, they are unlikely to turn to the Internet. The Internet is already a very attractive option for collecting data from groups of the general public with a high online presence. With further improvements predicted in access and computer literacy, the Internet is an increasingly viable option for data collection. References