Page 84 - DLIS401_METHODOLOGY_OF_RESEARCH_AND_STATISTICAL_TECHNIQUES

Unit 5: Research Techniques and Tools

There should be no errors. Notes

Printing or reproduction should be of letter quality and appear original. Print should be dark
and clear.
Response spaces should be in the same position on each question and pushed toward the left
or right margin where they are easily found. Place column numbers for coding near the
question number and in parenthesis. Consider data analysis from the beginning. Construct
your code book as soon as your questionnaire has finished pre-testing. All questions and
pages should be clearly numbered. If both sides of the paper are used, a large, bold, OVER
must appear at the right footer of each verso page.
Your return address should appear at the foot of the questionnaire and probably at the head
as well. The study title should be clear, understandable to lay people and in a larger, bold
font.
Clear, brief instructions are needed at the head and in the body as needed. Deadline information
may or may not be useful. It is an asset by encouraging respondents to reply promptly. It is
a liability of potential respondents decide not to reply because the deadline is near or past.
Do provide a reasonable space at the end for comments. Also at the end, indicate what will
happen next with the study. If dealing with a professional audience, indicate that a copy of
the study will be available and how they might get a copy.

Page Format
Introduction
This is a slow process and must be done with care. Pages should be neat and aesthetically
pleasing.

Use lower case letters for the questions and upper case letters for the answers [responses].
Each value should be numbered and the number should be circled. Use the same number
throughout for the same value. For example, yes should always be “1.” Do not split questions
between pages.
Flow and Order
Establish vertical flow with the beginning of the question and the beginning of the answers.
Leave enough white space between questions. Directions should appear in parentheses so that
they stand out. You may use multiple columns and hats to conserve space as in the example
below.
FATHER................................. MOTHER
1............................................... 1................. NO FORMAL EDUCATION
2............................................... 2 .................SOME GRADE SCHOOL.
Skipping not applicable questions is always a problem. Use arrows to direct to next applicable
question. Indent questions dependent on an earlier response. Use text boxes to direct respondents
to the next applicable question.

Did u know? Use transitions for continuity and to stimulate motivation. Transitions are
needed for new topics and to break monotony.

LOVELY PROFESSIONAL UNIVERSITY 79