If you have a longer assignment, dissertation, or extended project coming up, it’s never too early to start planning your research methods. For many of you, this may involve collecting data using a quantitative, qualitative, or mixed-method approach.
One option worth considering is a questionnaire delivered via an online platform. Depending on the types of questions you include, this can be a flexible and effective way to gather data:
Quantitative questions produce numerical or multiple-choice answers that can be counted (e.g., “Rate this product from 1 to 5”).
Qualitative questions are open-ended, allowing respondents to share detailed answers in their own words (e.g., “Please describe your experience”).
Why do people dread surveys?
In my experience, when that survey request email appears in my inbox, I hesitate. Often, I will only respond if I feel strongly about the issue or maybe if there’s an incentive or a requirement to complete it. I don’t think I am alone in this feeling, known as respondent fatigue.
Design Matters
If you plan to use a survey for your research, invest time in its design. A well-structured survey improves response rates and data quality. Here’s where to start:
Your module reading list – It’s the best foundation for understanding research methods.
- Also, check out the Skills for Success Research Methods and Design skills guide [link].
3 tips for writing your survey questions
Keep questions clear and simple.
Avoid overly complex wording. Respondents should understand the question immediately without needing clarification.
Ask one thing at a time.
For example, try not to ask, “How satisfied are you with the product and customer service?”. Break it into two separate questions.
Use neutral wording and randomize questions.
Avoid leading or biased language that pushes respondents toward a particular answer. Randomize answers so respondents are not just choosing option 1 to get it finished.
Why use Jisc Online Surveys?
Online Surveys [link] (formerly Bristol Online Surveys or BOS) is LSBU’s digital survey tool of choice. All LSBU students and staff have free, unlimited access to it.
Benefits include:
- Comprehensive help and support guides, including access to online webinars.
- Randomizing questions and the ability to apply logic (branching).
- A wide variety of question types.
Compliance with stringent ethical requirements.
To be set up on the LSBU Institutional Account for Jisc Online Surveys, email the Digital Skills Training Team – digitalskills@lsbu.ac.uk