I have analysed the questionnaire I have used in my MA thesis: the type of survey, sample size, sampling technique, sampling and non-sampling errors, margin of error, questionnaire design (response scale, general considerations, open-ended vs. closed-ended questions, reliability and validity) and missing data.
Table of Contents
INTRODUCTION
1.TYPE OF SURVEY
2. SAMPLE SIZE
3. SAMPLING TECHNIQUE
4. SAMPLING AND NON-SAMPLING ERRORS
5. MARGIN OF ERROR
6. QUESTIONNAIRE DESIGN – RESPONSE SCALE
7. QUESTIONNAIRE DESIGN – GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS
8. OPEN-ENDED VERSUS CLOSED-ENDED QUESTIONS
9. QUESTIONNAIRE DESIGN - RELIABILITY AND VALIDITY
10. MISSING DATA
CONCLUSION
Objectives and Research Focus
The primary objective of this assignment is to conduct a critical methodological analysis of the questionnaire used in the author's Master's thesis concerning the ERASMUS programme's role in promoting tolerance. The paper explores the efficacy of different survey distribution methods, sampling strategies, and instrument design principles to ensure reliable and valid academic research.
- Comparative analysis of email versus internet-based survey methodologies.
- Evaluation of sampling techniques, specifically quota and non-probabilistic methods.
- Assessment of questionnaire design elements including response scales and question structure.
- Identification and mitigation strategies for sampling and non-sampling errors.
- Managing data quality through considerations of reliability, validity, and missing data.
Excerpt from the Publication
3. Sampling technique
Next step in research is what kind of sampling technique to use. In my research there was used purposive sampling method: quota sampling (non-proportional). In this method the minimum number of sampled units in each category is specified (there is no need to have numbers that match the proportions in the population). This method is the non-probabilistic analogue of stratified random sampling in that it is typically used to assure that smaller groups are adequately represented in my sample. Also convenience or judgment sampling has been used to select the required number of subjects from each stratum. This differs from stratified sampling, where the stratums are filled by random sampling.
Summary of Chapters
INTRODUCTION: Outlines the scope of the research, specifically focusing on the comparative study of the ERASMUS programme across four European countries.
1.TYPE OF SURVEY: Discusses the transition and practical implications of using email versus internet surveys for cross-national data collection.
2. SAMPLE SIZE: Examines the decision-making process regarding sample size, balancing time, budget, and the necessary degree of precision.
3. SAMPLING TECHNIQUE: Details the application of purposive and quota sampling methods to ensure adequate representation of target groups.
4. SAMPLING AND NON-SAMPLING ERRORS: Addresses the distinction between different types of survey errors and strategies to minimize non-sampling bias.
5. MARGIN OF ERROR: Explains the impact of sample size and population variability on the uncertainty of survey results.
6. QUESTIONNAIRE DESIGN – RESPONSE SCALE: Analyzes the pros and cons of various response scales, such as Yes/No vs. Likert scales, for data analysis.
7. QUESTIONNAIRE DESIGN – GENERAL CONSIDERATIONS: Covers best practices for question ordering, pilot testing, and ensuring clarity in survey instruments.
8. OPEN-ENDED VERSUS CLOSED-ENDED QUESTIONS: Compares the utility and limitations of different question formats in capturing respondent data.
9. QUESTIONNAIRE DESIGN - RELIABILITY AND VALIDITY: Defines the essential requirements of a robust questionnaire, focusing on consistent and accurate measurement.
10. MISSING DATA: Provides a framework for handling incomplete responses and the criteria for removing problematic questions from analysis.
CONCLUSION: Synthesizes the methodological findings and confirms the effectiveness of the evaluated questionnaire structure.
Keywords
Survey Methodology, Questionnaire Design, ERASMUS Programme, Sampling Technique, Quota Sampling, Response Scale, Reliability, Validity, Sampling Error, Non-sampling Error, Pilot Test, Data Analysis, Open-ended Questions, Closed-ended Questions, Missing Data.
Frequently Asked Questions
What is the core purpose of this paper?
This paper serves as a methodological critique and analysis of the survey instruments employed in the author's research on the ERASMUS programme and tolerance levels among students.
What are the primary themes discussed?
The work focuses on survey distribution, sampling methods, questionnaire construction, error mitigation, and data reliability.
What is the author's central research objective?
The objective is to refine survey design and methodology to accurately measure attitudes across diverse European student populations.
Which research methodology does the author employ?
The author uses a purposive, quota-based sampling method and evaluates both closed-ended and open-ended survey questions.
What topics are covered in the main body?
The main body systematically covers the survey lifecycle: from instrument development and pilot testing to addressing bias, margin of error, and handling missing data.
Which keywords best characterize the work?
Key terms include Survey Methodology, Questionnaire Design, Sampling Technique, Reliability, and Data Analysis.
How does the author handle the challenge of response bias?
The author emphasizes the importance of clear, non-leading wording and logical question placement to minimize the risk of respondents providing identical or biased answers.
Why did the author use both open-ended and closed-ended questions?
The author utilized both to balance the ease of quantitative analysis provided by closed-ended questions with the qualitative depth of insights gained from open-ended responses.
What specific advice does the author give regarding pilot testing?
The author highlights that pilot testing is crucial as it reveals ambiguities in the survey instrument that are not apparent during the development phase.
- Citar trabajo
- Karina Oborune (Autor), 2010, Analysis of the questionnaire used in "ERASMUS Programme as Promoter of Tolerance comparing Latvia to France and Switzerland", Múnich, GRIN Verlag, https://www.grin.com/document/145052
