What are the major types or modes of survey research? Describe situations in which each of these types is the most appropriate choice.

What will be an ideal response?

When answering the first part of the question, responses should identify the two major survey modes as the self-administered questionnaire survey and the interview survey.

In self-administered questionnaire surveys, respondents are asked to complete the questionnaires themselves by reading the questions and entering their own answers. These surveys may be self-administered by mail, in person, or through the Internet. The most common version is a mail survey, which is a copy of the questionnaire that is sent to respondents through the mail. Researchers may also consider administering the questionnaire simultaneously to a group of respondents gathered in one place. This approach is feasible when respondents can assemble together. Computerized survey options include web-based surveys and email surveys, both of which are administered over the Internet, and the Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing (CAPI) system, which requires researchers to bring computers to respondents’ homes, schools, or work sites. Respondents using a CAPI system record their responses on the computer while reading questions on the screen or listening to a recording of an interviewer.

In interview surveys, respondents do not complete the questionnaire by themselves. Instead, researchers or interviewers ask questions and submit answer categories (if applicable) orally, to which respondents record their choices or answers. Interview surveys may be conducted face-to-face—either in person or via web camera—or by phone.

Responses for the second part of the question will vary, but should describe specific situations in which each survey mode would be the most appropriate choice.