Maths
Questionnaires
A common method of collecting data for a survey is to use a questionnaire. Questionnaires take many forms, and are carried out using a variety of methods.
Methods of collecting data
Methods of collecting data
The four main methods of collecting data are:
- face to face
- by phone
- by post
- via the internet
There are advantages and disadvantages to using each of these methods. One might be better suited to a particular survey than another.
Try this sample question to help you think about these different ways to collect data.
- Question
Write down the advantages and disadvantages of carrying out a face-to-face interview.
- Answer
Advantages
- The interviewee is much more likely to answer the questions than if they had to post their responses.
- The interviewer can ask more complex questions.
- The interviewer can explain the questions, if necessary.
- The interviewer is likely to be more consistent when they record the responses.
Disadvantages
- This method of interviewing takes a lot of time, and might be expensive.
- The interviewee is more likely to lie or refuse to answer a question.
Types of question
You might be expected to design a questionnaire as part of your coursework or exam. Questionnaires can include:
- yes/no answers
- tick boxes
- numbered responses
- word responses
- questions which require a sentence to be written
Whichever style (or styles) of questions you use, it is important that they are easy to understand, cover every possible answer, are unbiased (they do not lead respondents to give a particular answer) and unambiguous (they have a clear meaning). You must also ensure that they are appropriate to your survey.
Poor questionnaire questions
How a question is phrased is very important, so it is useful to be able to spot a bad one.
Have a look at the following questions. Can you spot any problems with them?
- Question
You support Arsenal, don't you?
- Answer
This is a biased question. The interviewee might feel pressurised into saying 'yes'. A better question would be: 'Which football team, if any, do you support?'
- Question
Are you a criminal?
- Answer
It is unlikely that you will get a truthful answer to this, especially in a face-to-face interview!
- Question
Do you think maths is:
- a very interesting subject
- quite an interesting subject?
- Answer
This is biased in favour of maths, and it does not cover every possible answer.