Survey Method Research a Comprehensive Overview

Survey Method Research a Comprehensive Overview:

Introduction:

Survey Method Research plays a crucial role in gathering valuable insights from a wide range of individuals regarding significant events or topics. Surveys offer quantitative data about the social landscape, allowing researchers to uncover new information and gain further understanding of existing knowledge. This research method finds extensive application in fields such as sociology, psychology, economics, political science, and journalism. By employing questionnaires, interviews, or tests, survey researchers collect opinions from a representative sample of the population related to the subject of study, analyze the responses, and draw meaningful conclusions. This article explores the various aspects of survey research, its types, merits, and drawbacks.

Definition of Survey Research:

According to Neumann, survey research is a systematic quantitative research approach where researchers ask a large number of individuals similar questions and record their responses. It involves formulating hypotheses, selecting appropriate survey methods, such as telephone or postal questionnaires, and creating a research design.

Steps in Conducting a Survey:

The process of conducting a survey encompasses several essential steps, as outlined by Newman:

Research Design Step: At the outset, the researcher formulates hypotheses and decides on the survey methodology, such as telephone interviews or postal questionnaires. A research sketch is prepared, defining the structure of the study.

Pre-testing of Tools: The researcher tests the tools used in the research, such as questionnaires or interview schedules, to ensure their effectiveness and suitability.

Sampling Step: The researcher selects the sample and determines the appropriate sample size.

Material Collection Step: This step involves contacting the respondents, conducting interviews, and recording the obtained information.

Content Analysis Phase: Statistical methods are employed to analyze the collected data in this phase.

Conclusion Stage: Drawing conclusions and preparing a comprehensive report summarizing the findings are key objectives of this final stage. The researcher communicates the results to others and disseminates the acquired knowledge.

Types of Surveys:

Various types of surveys are employed based on the specific requirements of the research. The commonly used types include:

Telephone Survey (Telephonic Survey)

Mail Survey (Postal Survey)

Face-to-Face Survey

Internet Survey (Web-based Survey)

1. Telephone Survey (Telephonic Survey):

Telephone surveys involve researchers asking questions to respondents over the phone, with the respondents providing answers during the conversation. This method is particularly useful when the respondents are geographically dispersed or located in remote areas, and when the amount of required information is relatively small.

2. Mail Survey (Postal Survey):

In mail surveys, researchers send questionnaires along with instructions to the respondents via mail. The respondents complete the questionnaires and send them back to the researcher.

3. Face-to-Face Survey:

Face-to-face surveys are considered the most reliable method for gathering information. In this approach, the researcher or interviewer meets the respondent at a designated time and place, asks questions, and records the responses. Face-to-face interaction enhances the reliability and validity of the research findings.

4. Internet Survey (Web-based Survey):

Internet surveys utilize online platforms, where researchers send questionnaires through email or web servers. Respondents fill out the questionnaires on their computers and return them electronically. This method is convenient, efficient, and has gained prominence in the digital era.

Merits of Survey Research:

Survey research offers several advantages that contribute to its widespread use and effectiveness. These merits include:

1.Reliable Information: Surveys provide reliable information as researchers have control over the survey design, data collection methods, and analysis processes. By following standardized procedures and using validated measurement tools, researchers can ensure the accuracy and consistency of the collected data.

2.Increased Participant Engagement: When researchers genuinely interact with survey participants, individuals tend to show interest in the survey and provide more valuable information. Establishing a rapport and creating a comfortable environment can encourage respondents to actively engage in the survey, leading to richer and more insightful data.

3.Unbiased Approach: Survey research aims to maintain objectivity and neutrality throughout the process. Researchers employ standardized questionnaires or interview protocols, ensuring consistency in the data collection process and minimizing potential biases. This enables researchers to obtain unbiased and representative insights from the respondents.

4.Problem Awareness: Through surveys, researchers have the opportunity to connect with a diverse range of individuals. This interaction allows researchers to gain a deeper understanding of the problems and issues prevalent in the research area. By identifying and acknowledging these challenges, survey research contributes to problem awareness and can guide further investigations or interventions.

5.Hypothesis Testing: Surveys serve as valuable tools for testing hypotheses in research. By formulating specific research questions and designing appropriate survey instruments, researchers can systematically gather data to examine and evaluate their hypotheses. This quantitative approach enables researchers to assess relationships, trends, and patterns within the collected data, contributing to the advancement of knowledge in various fields.

Survey research, with its reliability, participant engagement, unbiased approach, problem awareness, and hypothesis testing capabilities, plays a crucial role in expanding our understanding of complex social phenomena and informing evidence-based decision-making.

Demerits of Survey Research:

Survey research, despite its numerous benefits, also presents some limitations. These include:

1.Mistrust: Occasionally, individuals may harbor mistrust towards survey researchers, leading to unfounded accusations. This skepticism is particularly prevalent when sensitive topics are involved, with researchers being wrongly labeled as agents or biased.

2.Non-cooperation: Some individuals may refuse to cooperate during surveys, dismissing their relevance and considering the truth to be inconsequential. This non-cooperation can impede data collection and compromise the representativeness of the sample.

3.Resource Intensiveness: Surveying requires substantial resources in terms of finances, time, and logistical support. Researchers often need to conduct fieldwork multiple times, including visits to remote areas, which can strain their budgets. Limited resources may pose challenges in conducting comprehensive survey research.

4.Potential for Mutual Disagreement: Surveys that delve into sensitive topics run the risk of sparking disagreements between the researcher and the respondents. This can create a contentious atmosphere and hinder the research process, potentially affecting the quality and reliability of the data collected.