Handed-out Questionnaires

• The most convenient method of administration.

• The size and scope of your sample is compromised because of limited resources.

• Anonymity can be maintained.

• The representitiveness of your data is compromised because you can only sample a few places.

• Response can vary, depending on your particular method.
  • If you wait for the respondent to complete the questionnaire, response is very good.
  • If you leave the questionnaire with the respondent, response rates drop off.

• Because the respondent can preview the survey before taking it, it must be shorter and more interesting.

• If the sample is interested in the topic, response rates are similar to other methods.

• Questions must be simple and the instructions must be clear to avoid confusion and to ensure return.

• The questions should be well pre-tested before sending the survey out so that major problems can be avoided, although you can be present in some situations to answer questions.