Guidelines for Conducting Surveys.
Abstract
This report provides practical guidance for anyone, inside or outside the Air Force, interested in constructing surveys, especially for gathering data about general attitudes and behaviors. It is also useful for those interested in constructing surveys (i.e., application forms) for evaluative purposes. The report begins with a discussion of various types of surveys (paper-and-pencil, automated, telephone) and the criteria for selecting one or another type. The use of surveys is also contrasted with other data-gathering techniques such as interviews and naturalistic observation. How to increase response rate by motivating participation is explained. Then survey ethics are discussed from free speech and privacy perspectives with emphasis upon the need for ensuring voluntary participation and maintaining confidentiality. Sampling issues and ways to distribute and return surveys are presented. This is followed by a detailed discussion of item and survey construction with practical suggestions for writing item stems and common or specific responses options. Finally, techniques for analyzing an reporting results are presented.
Document Details
- Document Type
- Technical Report
- Publication Date
- Jun 01, 1997
- Accession Number
- ADA328761
Entities
People
- Thomas W. Watson
Organizations
- Armstrong Laboratory