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Unit 5: Collection of Data

(f) The process is time consuming, particularly when the information is to be obtained Notes
by post.
5. Information Through Schedules Filled by Investigators: The information obtained through
mailing the questionnaires to the respondents is generally incomplete and
unrepresentative. To avoid this problem, the work of filling of a questionnaire, termed as
schedule here, can be done by the investigator through personal contact with the
respondent. In order to get reliable information, the investigator should be tactful, well
trained, unbiased and hard working.
Merits
(a) This method is suitable for an extensive area of investigation.

(b) Since the investigator has a direct contact with the respondents, it is possible to get
accurate and reliable information.
(c) By asking cross questions it is possible to test the truth of the supplied information.

(d) The problem of non-response is minimised.
(e) It is possible to get the information even if the respondents are not educated.
Demerits
(a) This method is very expensive and time consuming.

(b) The collected information is affected, to a large extent, by the bias of the investigator.
(c) If the investigators are negligent or not properly trained, the results of investigations
are likely to be misleading.

5.2.1 Drafting a Questionnaire or a Schedule

A questionnaire or a schedule is a list of questions relating to the problem under investigation.
There is no basic difference between a questionnaire and a schedule. A questionnaire is filled by
the respondent, while a schedule is filled by the investigator.
The quality of information collected through the filling of a questionnaire depends, to a large
extent, upon the drafting of its questions. Hence, it is extremely important that the questions be
designed or drafted very carefully and in a tactful manner. Although, there are no hard and fast
rules to be followed, but the following general points must always be kept in mind to draft a
good questionnaire or schedule.
1. The questions should be simple, unambiguous and precise.
2. The number of questions should be as small as possible. Only those questions which have
a direct relevance to the problem be included.
3. The question should be framed in such a manner that their answers are specific and
precise.
The following four type of questions are generally framed in any questionnaire :
(a) Simple alternative questions: Such questions are answered by yes/no or right/wrong,
etc.
(b) Multiple choice questions: In such questions, the possible answers are printed in the
questionnaire and the respondent is supposed to tick any one of them.

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