Psychology Research Methods (Questionnaires)

Study Notes

Questionnaires

Research tool comprising a series of questions used to gather information from respondents.
Can be administered face-to-face, via telephone, computer, or post.

Strengths of Questionnaires

Offer a cost-effective and efficient method for collecting large data sets from extensive samples.
Quick data collection without the researcher’s presence, beneficial for large populations.

Weaknesses of Questionnaires

Respondents may provide inaccurate answers due to social desirability bias, impacting the validity of the data.

Closed Questions

Limit responses to predefined categories, falling into Ordinal Data (ranked) and Nominal Data.

Strengths of Closed Questions

Economical in data collection, enabling large sample sizes that enhance representativeness.
Responses easily converted to quantitative data, facilitating statistical analysis.
Standardized format allows for repeated use, aiding in testing reliability.

Weaknesses of Closed Questions

Fail to capture detailed responses, restricting expression of true feelings or opinions.

Open Questions

Permit unrestricted responses, allowing respondents to articulate thoughts in their own words.

Strengths of Open Questions

Generate rich qualitative data, revealing deeper insights into respondents' attitudes.

Weaknesses of Open Questions

Data collection is time-consuming, potentially resulting in a smaller sample size.
Analysis is complex, requiring categorization of subjective qualitative data.
May be difficult for less educated respondents due to required writing skills and articulation.

Designing a Questionnaire

Essential aspects include clear aims, appropriate length, conducting a pilot study, ordering questions thoughtfully, using understandable terminology, and ensuring appealing presentation.

Ethical Issues of Questionnaires

Confidentiality of respondent information must be maintained, particularly in sensitive research.
Informed consent is essential, along with ensuring participants can withdraw their information anytime.

Problems with Postal Questionnaires

Validity may be compromised; authenticity of respondents cannot be guaranteed.
Risk of being unrepresentative due to potential loss or misdirection of questionnaires.
Incomplete responses if answered by individuals outside the research population.

Description

Explore the fundamental concepts of questionnaires in psychology research. This quiz covers definitions, strengths, and various types of questionnaires used for gathering information. Enhance your understanding of this essential research tool.

Psychology Research Methods (Questionnaires)

Choose a study mode

Podcast

Questions and Answers

What is a questionnaire?

What is one strength of using questionnaires?

What is a weakness of questionnaires?

What type of data do closed questions typically produce?

What is a strength of closed questions?

What is a weakness of closed questions?

What is an open question?

What is a strength of open questions?

What is a potential weakness of open questions?

What should researchers ensure when using questionnaires?

What are some issues with postal questionnaires?