Population Data

Population Data

Definition

Population data is information pertaining to the population and relates directly to various economic, social, and demographic matters.

Sources of Population Data

There are two basic sources:

1. Primary Sources

   • Data obtained directly through:
     • Registration of persons (e.g., births and deaths)
     • Population census
     • Sample surveys
     • Information from resourceful persons

2. Secondary Sources

   • Compiled and published population reports, including:
     • Census reports
     • Textbooks and other reference books
     • Atlases
     • Magazines, newspapers, journals, periodicals
     • Research papers

Interpretation of Population Data

1. Includes:

   • Means
   • Densities
   • Birth and death rates
   • Sex ratios
   • Other relevant population statistics

2. Population statistics can be studied in:

   • Raw form
   • Processed form

3. Studying this information allows for:

   • Drawing conclusions
   • Seeking explanations

Uses of Population Data

1. Population numbers and density enable the government to plan how to allocate resources.

2. Data on birth and death rates as well as fertility and mortality enable government to plan how to provide medical services and health education, especially where the death rate is very high.

3. Data on migration can enable a government to plan how to curb influx of people into urban areas from the rural regions if corrective measures are taken.

4. Knowing the number of dependents enables the government to plan for expansion of schools, medical and other social amenities to take care of large number of children below the age of 15.

5. It enables planning for creation of jobs. Population census data provides information about overpopulation and underpopulation.