Designing questionnaires is not as easy as it sometimes looks! There are many ways in which you can go wrong.
Here is a list of do’s and don’ts :
DO
Give clear instructions and explanations on how to complete the questions
Have a clear layout to follow and record answers
Make your questions clear and easy to follow
Ask for any personal details at the end
Explain what the research is and who you are
Use simple language that all will understand
Provide multiple choice answers where appropriate
DON’T
Make your questionnaire too long
Have too few categories available
Use vague terms or questions that may lead to confusion
Ask embarrassing or personal questions
Have categories that overlap
Include any technical terms
Include any leading questions (suggesting a probable answer)
Here is an example of a badly designed questionnaire.
Working in pairs, use the list of “do’s and don’ts” to identify faults in the questionnaire’s design.
A. What is your name and age?
B. How old are your children? 1-3 3-6 6-10 10-15
C. Does your husband help with the housework? Yes/No
D. Do you have joint conjugal roles? Yes/ No
E. Don’t you agree that sex before marriage is wrong? Yes/No
F. How often do you have sex? Often/Sometimes
G. Do you read newspapers Often/Sometimes
NOW, work together to put these questions right!