Techniques for Creating and Using Web Questionnaires in Research and Teaching

Publisher Summary This chapter focuses on the techniques and procedures that are used for putting questionnaires on the Web, with particular emphasis on the technical details. Interactive questioning can be programmed so that it can be described clearly and replicated. In this regard, the method is similar to computer-assisted telephone interviewing, but it is much less expensive. Included here are error checking, challenges to past responses, and use of practice trials with feedback about them. It is easier to make sure that subjects answer all the questions, give answers in the appropriate range, and meet minimal conditions on ordering. Also, Web questionnaires make it much easier to have students to collect and analyze data, as a teaching exercise. However, server-side programs must be carefully written in order not to make the server vulnerable to break-ins, so it is best to consult your local system administrator for advice about which program to use.