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Frederick Conrad, Ph.D.

This course presents research conducted to increase our understanding of how data collection decisions affect survey errors. This is not a “how–to-do-it” course on data collection, but instead reviews the literature on survey design decisions and data quality in order to sensitize learners to how alternative survey designs might impact the data obtained from those surveys.

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This course presents research conducted to increase our understanding of how data collection decisions affect survey errors. This is not a “how–to-do-it” course on data collection, but instead reviews the literature on survey design decisions and data quality in order to sensitize learners to how alternative survey designs might impact the data obtained from those surveys.

The course reviews a range of survey data collection methods that are both interview-based (face-to-face and telephone) and self-administered (paper questionnaires that are mailed and those that are implemented online, i.e. as web surveys). Mixed mode designs are also covered as well as several hybrid modes for collecting sensitive information e.g., self-administering the sensitive questions in what is otherwise a face-to-face interview. The course also covers newer methods such as mobile web and SMS (text message) interviews, and examines alternative data sources such as social media. It concentrates on the impact these techniques have on the quality of survey data, including error from measurement, nonresponse, and coverage, and assesses the tradeoffs between these error sources when researchers choose a mode or survey design.

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Syllabus

Module 1: Introduction, Classic Modes of Survey Data Collection
In this lesson, you will be introduced to some key concepts about survey data collection methods that we will rely on throughout the course. By the end of this lesson, you should be well acquainted with the major sources of survey error and how these are affected -- usually in the form of tradeoffs -- by the particular mode used to administer questions and capture responses.
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Traffic lights

Read about what's good
what should give you pause
and possible dealbreakers
Emphasizes the impact of survey design decisions on data quality, offering insights for researchers and practitioners
Provides a comprehensive overview of survey data collection methods, including interview-based, self-administered, and mixed mode designs
Teaches strategies to assess tradeoffs between different sources of error, empowering learners to make informed decisions about survey design
Covers emerging modes such as mobile web and SMS text interviews, preparing learners for the latest advancements in data collection
Suitable for researchers, survey methodologists, and students seeking a deep understanding of survey data collection
Can be beneficial for professionals in fields such as social sciences, market research, and public opinion polling

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Reviews summary

Literature review on data collection

Based on the course description and structure, this course is presented as a literature review rather than a practical "how-to" guide on data collection methods. It covers a wide range of survey modes, including online, telephone, face-to-face, mixed mode, and emerging methods like mobile and social media data. The primary focus is on understanding how different survey design decisions impact data quality and survey errors, such as measurement, nonresponse, and coverage, and analyzing the tradeoffs between these errors.
Literature review, not practical 'how-to'
"I understood this course reviews existing literature on survey design decisions and data quality."
"This is not designed as a practical 'how-to-do-it' course on data collection."
"I was looking for practical steps and techniques, but this course focuses on the theory and research."
Covers new modes and data sources
"The course also covers newer methods such as mobile web and SMS interviews."
"It examines alternative data sources such as social media, sensor data, and administrative data."
"I was interested to see emerging modes and new data sources discussed."
Wide range of data collection methods
"The course reviews a range of survey data collection methods..."
"It covers interview-based (face-to-face and telephone) and self-administered (paper, online)."
"Mixed mode designs are also covered as well as several hybrid modes."
Impact of decisions on errors and quality
"This course presents research conducted to increase our understanding of how data collection decisions affect survey errors."
"It concentrates on the impact these techniques have on the quality of survey data, including error from measurement, nonresponse, and coverage."
"I learned how alternative survey designs might impact the data obtained."

Activities

Be better prepared before your course. Deepen your understanding during and after it. Supplement your coursework and achieve mastery of the topics covered in Data Collection: Online, Telephone and Face-to-face with these activities:
Explore the Qualtrics Tutorial
Going through the Qualtrics tutorial will familiarize you with the software and enable you to use it effectively for survey data collection
Browse courses on Qualtrics
Show steps
  • Complete the interactive exercises
  • Access the Qualtrics tutorial
  • Create a sample survey using Qualtrics
Complete Survey Design Exercises
Completing survey design exercises will help you apply the concepts and principles learned in the course to real-world scenarios
Browse courses on Survey Design
Show steps
  • Review the lecture materials on survey design
  • Use the provided templates or create your own survey instrument
  • Test your survey on a small sample of respondents
  • Analyze the results and make necessary revisions
Participate in Discussion Forums
Engaging in discussions with peers allows you to exchange ideas, ask questions, and gain diverse perspectives on course topics
Show steps
  • Read the discussion prompts and assigned readings
  • Post your initial thoughts and responses
  • Respond to at least one peer's post
Four other activities
Expand to see all activities and additional details
Show all seven activities
Compile a List of Survey Resources
Creating a compilation of survey resources will help you stay updated and expand your knowledge beyond the course materials
Show steps
  • Search for articles, books, and online resources related to survey research
  • Organize the resources by topic or category
  • Annotate each resource with a brief description
Design and Implement a Survey Project
Conducting a survey project allows you to apply the concepts and principles learned in the course to a real-world research question
Browse courses on Survey Design
Show steps
  • Develop a research question and hypothesis
  • Design the survey instrument using best practices
  • Select a sample and collect data
  • Analyze the data and interpret the findings
  • Write a report and present your results
Volunteer for a Survey Research Organization
Volunteering for a survey research organization provides hands-on experience and allows you to contribute to real-world research projects
Show steps
  • Research survey research organizations in your area
  • Contact the organization and inquire about volunteer opportunities
  • Attend training sessions and complete any required certifications
  • Participate in survey administration, data collection, or analysis activities
Contribute to an Open-Source Survey Tool
Contributing to an open-source survey tool allows you to gain practical experience and make a direct impact on the field
Browse courses on Open-Source Software
Show steps
  • Identify an open-source survey tool that aligns with your interests
  • Review the documentation and codebase
  • Identify a feature or improvement to work on
  • Submit a pull request with your changes

Career center

Learners who complete Data Collection: Online, Telephone and Face-to-face will develop knowledge and skills that may be useful to these careers:
Survey Researcher
Survey Researchers design, conduct, and analyze surveys to collect data on a variety of topics. This course will help you develop the skills needed to design effective surveys, collect high-quality data, and analyze results. You will also learn about the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality.
Data Scientist
Data Scientists apply their knowledge of statistics, programming, and machine learning to extract meaningful insights from data. This course can help you develop the skills needed to design surveys, collect data, and analyze results. This course will also help you understand the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality.
Market Research Analyst
Market Research Analysts collect and interpret data to understand consumer behavior and market trends. This course will help you develop the skills needed to design and conduct surveys, analyze data, and present findings. You will also learn about the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality. This knowledge will be essential for success in this role.
UX Researcher
UX Researchers conduct research to improve the user experience of products and services. This course will help you develop the skills needed to design and conduct surveys, analyze data, and present findings. You will also learn about the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality.
Data Analyst
Data Analysts use data to solve problems and make informed decisions. This course will help you develop the skills needed to collect, clean, and analyze data. You will also learn about the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality. This knowledge will be essential for success in this role.
Business Analyst
Business Analysts use data to improve business processes and make better decisions. This course will help you develop the skills needed to collect, analyze, and interpret data. You will also learn about the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality.
Marketing Manager
Marketing Managers develop and execute marketing campaigns to promote products and services. This course will help you develop the skills needed to collect and analyze data to understand consumer behavior and market trends. You will also learn about the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality.
Product Manager
Product Managers develop and manage products to meet the needs of customers. This course will help you develop the skills needed to collect and analyze data to understand customer needs and preferences. You will also learn about the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality.
Public relations manager
Public Relations Managers develop and execute public relations campaigns to promote organizations and their products or services. This course will help you develop the skills needed to collect and analyze data to understand public opinion and media trends. You will also learn about the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality.
Operations Manager
Operations Managers develop and execute operations plans to ensure that organizations run smoothly and efficiently. This course will help you develop the skills needed to collect and analyze data to understand operational processes and identify areas for improvement. You will also learn about the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality.
Sales Manager
Sales Managers develop and execute sales strategies to achieve sales goals. This course will help you develop the skills needed to collect and analyze data to understand customer needs and preferences. You will also learn about the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality.
Customer Success Manager
Customer Success Managers work with customers to ensure that they are satisfied with their products or services. This course will help you develop the skills needed to collect and analyze data to understand customer needs and preferences. You will also learn about the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality.
Social Media Manager
Social Media Managers develop and execute social media campaigns to promote products and services. This course will help you develop the skills needed to collect and analyze data to understand social media trends and audience behavior. You will also learn about the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality.
Financial Analyst
Financial Analysts use data to make investment recommendations and advise clients on financial matters. This course will help you develop the skills needed to collect and analyze data to understand financial trends and make informed decisions. You will also learn about the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality.
Consultant
Consultants provide advice to organizations on a variety of topics. This course will help you develop the skills needed to collect and analyze data to understand client needs and provide informed recommendations. You will also learn about the different types of survey data collection methods and their impact on data quality.

Reading list

We've selected 15 books that we think will supplement your learning. Use these to develop background knowledge, enrich your coursework, and gain a deeper understanding of the topics covered in Data Collection: Online, Telephone and Face-to-face.
An overview of survey research, primarily quantitative. Covers survey modes, questionnaires, interviewing techniques, and ethical issues. An established and well respected text commonly used for survey methods courses.
An examination of the methods and challenges of surveys that involve household interviews. Useful for those interested in the design of field surveys, whether by phone or in person and those interested in non-response bias.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the problem of nonresponse in social science surveys. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this topic.
As an optional text for those who may be interested in more advanced quantitative analysis of survey data. Assumes some familiarity with basic SEM concepts.
Provides a good overview of the basic aspects of data collection and analysis. It is especially useful for those who are new to research methods, or who need a refresher on the basics.
A guide to survey design for mixed mode data collection. The authors developed the Tailored Design Methodwhich prominent method used in industry.
A solid introduction to the methods and principles of social research. It is written in a clear and engaging style, and it provides a good overview of the different types of research methods.
A reference guide for designing survey questionnaires for survey researchers conducting quantitative research. A step by step guide to the process, it provides a useful tool for those new to survey design.
Provides step-by-step instructions on quantitative research methods, from sampling to data analysis. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this topic.
Provides a comprehensive overview of the different statistical methods used to analyze survey data. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this topic.
Provides an in-depth overview of the different types of survey research methods. It valuable resource for anyone who wants to learn more about this topic.
A collection of essays from experts on the theory and practice of social research. Useful as a reference guide for survey researchers.
A text on the methods and technical aspects of survey design and implementation. Provides a foundation for those who are new to the field of survey research.

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