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Introduction to Survey Design

Dates: 
February 13, 2012 - February 17, 2012
Instructor: 
Dr Gordon Emmerson

Collecting survey data can be expensive and time-consuming; therefore it is appropriate to ensure that usable and reliable data are collected. This course is designed to prepare participants to build and conduct research surveys to meet a variety of needs.
 

Learning Objectives: 

Topics that are covered include uses of surveys, constructing survey questions that are clear and unbiased, improving survey reliability, types of samples and sampling, and combining objective and open-ended questioning in order to enhance the usability of results.
 
Types of data that can be collected in surveys will be covered, as well common mistakes made with surveys. Survey data analysis will also be illustrated in order for participants to gain exposure to a range of analysis possibilities.
 
Monday

  • How surveys can be used
  • Types of surveys and types of data collection
  • Research language relating to surveys
  • Important aspects of design and layout
  • Writing good survey questions
  • Avoiding common mistakes.

Tuesday

  • Sampling theory and the importance of matching the sample to the needs
  • Ensuring the survey achieves the research objectives
  • The importance of reliability and validity of surveys
  • Methods to determine the reliability and validity of the survey
  • Research design and the types of surveys that meet various designs
  • Data collection methodologies

Wednesday

  • Pilot testing
  • The importance of response rate
  • Methods to improve response rate
  • Telephone and online surveying
  • Merging survey data with qualitative research
  • Ethical issues and survey research
  • Cover letter, ethical guidelines and committees

Thursday

  • Handling survey data when it comes in
  • Coding data and preparing it for Excel or SPSS
  • Statistical procedures for survey data
  • Exploring data to get the most out of them

Friday

  • Reporting survey results
  • What claims can be made and what claims cannot be made
  • Review of the elements necessary for reliable surveys to meet the needs of the research
  • Individual consultations.
References: 

Arsham, H. Questionnaire design and surveys sampling. University of Baltimore Website. Retrieved September 3, 2009 from http://home.ubalt.edu/ntsbarsh/stat-data/Surveys.htm.

Lavrakas, P. J., Shuttles, C. D., Steeh, C., & Fienberg, H. (2007). The state of surveying cell phone numbers in the United States. Public Opinion Quarterly, 71 (5), 840–854.

Porter, S. R. & Whitcomb, M. E. (2007, Win). Mixed-mode contacts in web surveys. Public Opinion Quarterly, 71 (4), 635–648.

Rea, Louis M. & Parker, Richard A. (2005). Designing and Conducting Survey Research: A Comprehensive Guide: John Wiley & Sons, San Francisco.