Page 83 - DLIS401_METHODOLOGY_OF_RESEARCH_AND_STATISTICAL_TECHNIQUES

Methodology of Research and Statistical Techniques

Notes Revise the wording of each question until it is just right.

Response Options
Do include an option for “don’t know. Double check to insure that values are exclusive and
independent. Balance scales used in close-ended questions with an equal number on each side
of the middle position. It is better to arrange values vertically rather than horizontally to
eliminate the between the value response.
Sequencing Questions
There are at least three different approaches for you to consider. One is to begin with easy
questions in order to build confidence and make the respondent comfortable. The second is
to place the more important questions first to motivate and give a sense that the questionnaire
is important and well worth the respondent’s time. The third is to place general questions first
with the more specific ones to follow.
There is some disagreement over the placement of demographic questions. One approach is
place them at the beginning because they set the stage and are easily answered. The other
approach is to place them at the end because some respondents don’t like to answer any
“personal” questions. An incomplete response would still yield some useful data.
It is usually helpful to group questions by the type of response required. This makes responding
easier. There should be a logical transition, with appropriate text, between question groups.
Objectionable, time-consuming, or especially difficult questions should be at the end. These
questions are less likely to skew responses to preceding questions. Respondents have an investment
in responding to the questionnaire and are less likely to quit.
Selecting the first question is crucial. It should be clearly related to the problem, be interesting
to the respondent, and be easy to respond to. The question should be objective or neutral. It
should apply to everyone in the population. Finally, it should establish a visual or graphic
precedent for the questions that follow.

General Format
Size, shape, weight, color, paper quality, design, and layout all answer these important questions:
1. Is this questionnaire worth my time?
2. Has the questionnaire been created by a thoughtful professional?
3. Will it be difficult and time-consuming to complete?
The first impression is crucial in improving the response rate.

Your job is to make it as easy as possible to complete the questionnaire quickly and with
minimal effort. Consider the traditional negatives associated with Questionnaires:
• Long

• Difficult to understand or confusing
• Complicated

• Boring
• Poorly organized.
Avoid gimmicks or unusually creative formats.
Use white or off-white paper with black or blue ink. The paper needs to be light enough to
reduce postage, but not so light as to appear cheap.

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