Survey Research Methods

Applied Social Research Methods #1

by Floyd J. Fowler Jr.

The Fifth Edition of Floyd J. Fowler Jr.’s bestselling Survey Research Methods presents the very latest methodological knowledge on surveys. Offering a sound basis for evaluating how each aspect of a survey can affect its precision, accuracy, and credibility, the book guides readers through each step of the survey research process. This fully updated edition addresses the growth of the Internet for data collection and the subsequent rapid expansion of online survey usage, the precipitous drop in response rates for telephone surveys, the continued improvement in techniques for pre-survey evaluation of questions, and the growing role of individual cell phones in addition to―and often instead of―household landlines. Throughout the book, the author puts the profound changes taking place in the survey research world today into perspective, helping researchers learn how to best use new and traditional options for collecting data.

Genres: Research, Research Methods, Nonfiction, Reference, Urban Planning, Science

184 pages, Paperback

First published January 1, 1984

Reviews

[Rebecca · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book is one of those that is ONLY going to be useful to those looking for a particular skillset, but are really only interested in the basics. It provides a basic run-down of what is recommended to create and conduct surveying research. It is not particular to any specific field of study. All-in-all it was short, sweet, and to the point.

[Dea Sofie · Rating 2 out of 5]

This book (I read the 4th edition, but found no GoodReads page for it) is fine as a reference in research, but very outdated for how survey research is conducted today. It lacks a lot of consideration for computer based or online surveys.

[Christina · Rating 3 out of 5]

The book focuses a lot more on interview-based surveys. While the basic information can translate to online survey (the growing norm, now), I think a more detailed update would be great.

[Steven Peterson · Rating 5 out of 5]

One of the best handbooks on survey research methods. . . . I have used this as a text. I have also used it for advice when I have constructed survey instruments and supervised the interview process. Lucidly written. There are good discussions of sampling, implementing a sample design, questionnaire construction, interviewing (and training interviewers), data analysis, and so on.

A fine resource. . . .

[Michelle · Rating 3 out of 5]

Good reference for survey research, especially as regards design and avoiding pitfalls that produce bad data. The sampling chapters are particularly thoughtful, but a bit theoretical for me at this point. I'll revisit when I am designing my own research.

[Seth Pierce · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a great introduction to statistics for quantitative research. My only complaint comes early in the text during chapter three when the authors go into "math mode" and don't explain, or illustrate, the terms or concepts as concretely as they do elsewhere.

[Stephen · Rating 3 out of 5]

READ JAN 2009

Good overview of the survey process for research projects. Applies to academic as well as rigorous business studies.

[Katie · Rating 4 out of 5]

This is a good one. I can't say I enjoyed it, but it was informative :)

[morbidflight · Rating 4 out of 5]

Damn good overview of the essentials of survey research. Tiny book, too. Still reading it (current semester), but I know it's good.

[Randie D. Camp, M.S. · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful.

[Erin · Rating 4 out of 5]

Very helpful text for understanding the fundamentals of creating surveys for research.

[Leanna Aker · Rating 4 out of 5]

Good summary of things to consider in designing and conducting interviews and surveys.

[Tuvshinzaya · Rating 5 out of 5]

Life saver