Survey Research Methods

I used to teach a graduate course on research methods. This was one of the texts that I would assign--and I always enjoyed working with it. In addition, students tended to respond well to this book. Pluses: it is accessibly written; it is rather brief, so it does not overwhelm the reader. On the other hand, sometimes it would have been nice to have a wee bit more detail on certain issues (but that is a small point, after all). The book covers the basics: sampling, nonresponse--and how to address this; methods of collecting data; designing questions (a key, but often underlooked part of the survey process); evaluating survey questions and the instrument as a whole; interviewing; preparing data for analysis; ethical issues in survey research; etc. One key issue: total survey design. By looking at each stage in the process and trying to reduce error, one can enhance the confidence in one's findings and results. Overall, a fine work. . . .

Book very helpful explaining what is required to create surveys for research--arrived in a timely manner and book was in very good condition.

A good book on survey methods. Easy to use for both upper division undergraduate and masters level graduate students. The publisher (Sage) is known for quality methods books, so this fits well in their catalog. A part of their Applied Social Research series. The author also has a decent book on how to write good survey questions.