Student Web Activites

Chapter 2: Sociological Research Methods

"Surveys"

Introduction
In this chapter you have learned about how sociologists conduct research. They employ a variety of quantitative and qualitative methods, each with benefits and drawbacks. In this activity you will take a closer look at the procedures and planning involved in one of the most widely used methods of sociological research—the survey.

Web sites

What is a Survey?
How do you think surveys are completed? Read through this Web site to get an overview of what a survey is and what the survey process includes.

Survey Types
Discover the different types of surveys conducted and the advantages or disadvantages of each type at this Web site.

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Activity
Based upon what you have read, design a survey of your own. First, decide what you wish to accomplish or test with your survey. Then decide how you will obtain your sample. Which survey methods will you use—mail, telephone, personal interviews, focus groups? Write the questions for your survey, keeping in mind the things you have learned about careful wording. After you have drawn up a detailed plan for your survey, divide into small groups within your class and evaluate one another's surveys in terms of reliability and effectiveness.