PSYC 111 005: Introduction to Psychology: Basic Processes

Primary sources are information and data produced as part of a research project. They could include the methodology used, survey instrument and dataset, questionnaires to solicit participant input, field notes, interviews recorded during the research project, clinical practice notes, It can also include sources such as patient health records, medical test results, and health-related financial information.  

In B.C., the collection, use, disclosure, and retention of personal information are subject to and must comply with the provisions of the BC Freedom of Information and Protection of Privacy Act (FIPPA). 

Always be aware that patient information and data must be private and confidential. Access to and the use of such information is governed by a legislative statute and regulation in BC known as the E-Health (Personal Health Information Access and Protection of Privacy) Act. 

Examples of primary sources include theses, dissertations, scholarly journal articles (research-based reporting on new discoveries or conferring the findings of previously published findings), some government reports, symposia and conference proceedings, original artwork, poems, photographs, speeches, letters, memos, personal narratives, diaries, interviews, autobiographies, and correspondence.