What are the two 2 types of survey?

Surveys are a popular method of collecting data and information from a group of people. They are used in various fields such as market research, social sciences, and healthcare to gather insights and opinions from a specific population. Surveys can be conducted in different ways, but they can generally be classified into two main types: self-administered surveys and interviewer-administered surveys. In this article, we will delve into the details of these two types of surveys and their characteristics.

1. Self-Administered Surveys

Self-administered surveys are questionnaires that are completed by the respondents themselves without any involvement from an interviewer. These surveys can be conducted in various formats, such as paper-based, online, or through email. The most common types of self-administered surveys are:

a. Paper-based Surveys

Paper-based surveys are the traditional method of conducting surveys. They involve printing out the questionnaire and distributing it to the respondents. The respondents then fill out the questionnaire and return it through mail or in person. This method is cost-effective and can reach a large number of people. However, it can be time-consuming and may have a low response rate.

b. Online Surveys

With the advancement of technology, online surveys have become a popular method of data collection. Online surveys are conducted through web-based platforms, and respondents can access them through their computers or mobile devices. This method is convenient for both the researcher and the respondents as it saves time and resources. It also allows for a larger sample size and faster data analysis. However, online surveys may have a biased sample as not everyone has access to the internet, and there is a risk of duplicate responses.

c. Email Surveys

Email surveys are similar to online surveys, but they are sent directly to the respondents’ email addresses. This method is cost-effective and can reach a large number of people. However, the response rate may be low as emails can easily be ignored or sent to spam folders.

2. Interviewer-Administered Surveys

Interviewer-administered surveys involve an interviewer asking the questions and recording the responses from the respondents. These surveys can be conducted in person, over the phone, or through video conferencing. The most common types of interviewer-administered surveys are:

a. Face-to-Face Surveys

Face-to-face surveys involve an interviewer meeting with the respondents in person to ask the questions. This method allows for a high response rate and can clarify any doubts or confusion the respondents may have. However, it can be time-consuming and expensive, especially if the sample size is large.

b. Telephone Surveys

Telephone surveys involve an interviewer calling the respondents and asking the questions over the phone. This method is cost-effective and can reach a large number of people. However, it may have a lower response rate as people may not be willing to answer questions over the phone.

c. Video Conferencing Surveys

Video conferencing surveys are similar to face-to-face surveys, but they are conducted through video calls. This method is convenient for both the interviewer and the respondents as it saves time and resources. It also allows for a larger sample size and can reach respondents from different geographical locations. However, it may have a lower response rate as people may not be comfortable with video calls.

In conclusion, both self-administered and interviewer-administered surveys have their own advantages and disadvantages. The choice of which type of survey to use depends on the research objectives, target population, and available resources. Researchers should carefully consider these factors before deciding on the most suitable type of survey for their study.