A questionnaire is a type of survey handed out in paper form usually to a specific demographic to gather information in order to provider better service or goods. The questionnaire was invented by Sir Francis Galton.

when is it appropriate to use questionnaires? - Large number of people involved in the research - When you want straightforward information - When the social climate is open - When there is need for standardized data - When you have enough time (because of the production) - When there are enough resources - Respondents are able to read and understand the questions in the questionaires

The kind of data collected using a questionnaire: 1. Facts 2. Opinions

Planning the use of questionnaires -costs -production -organization -permission

Routine essentials for questionnaire design: Background information goverpage: sponsor, purpose, return address and date, confidentiality, voluntairy responses, thanks; instructions for the respondents (give examples/ instructions)

Length and appearance of a questionnaire: -include only questions that are absolutely vital; -no duplication of questions; -as straightforward and speedy as possible; -pilot the questionnaire before sending it to your sample; -visual appearance: desk top publishing.

Constructing the Questions: - identify the key issues - the wording of the questions - avoid irritations by respondents - respondents must be able to answer the questions - styly must be suited to target group -respondents must be willing -avoid leading questions -use neutral formulations -unambiguous -short and straightforward (avoid double denial) -middle category -sufficient options in the answer -most straightforward first - least the sensitive isssues at the beginning

Advantages: 1. economical 2. easy 3. standardized answers 4. pre-coded answers Disadvantages: 1. Pre-coded character may be frustrating 2. bias 3. thruthfulness of the answers