Overcoming Issues In Survey Research - Coursework Example

Overcoming issues in survey research Survey research is imperative when conducting a study dealing with social issues. However, there are many considerations that a researcher needs in order to meet the goals and objectives of the study. Hence, it is critical for the researcher to know the requirements and define strategies for overcoming the weaknesses.One of the weaknesses of the survey research includes the inability of the participants to answer or respond to all the questions asked (Christian, Dillman & Smyth, 2007).

Sometimes, participants or respondents fail to answer the questions in the expected manner and do not give the desired answers. It is a challenge experienced with most survey research. However, a researcher can overcome it by probing the participants or interviewees as sometimes they do contradict themselves and do not take a stand on what they believe (Christian, Dillman & Smyth, 2007). In many cases, participants ignore the essential issues required of them, hence leading to unreliability of data collected.

Secondly, survey research is characterized by bias, and this interferes with the quality of data collected (Christian, Dillman & Smyth, 2007). In many cases, participants pretend and respond to the question in a way that is not natural. There is much influence since some participants exaggerate their information and others do not disclose what they know. These acts are dangerous for any study since it interferes with validity. For this reason, a researcher has a role of creating a rapport with the participants in order to open up and give the desired information required for the study.

Similarly, participants consent is crucial because it makes them overcome privacy challenges.ReferencesChristian, L. M., Dillman, D. A., & Smyth, J. D. (2007). Helping respondents get it right the first time: The influence of words, symbols, and graphics in web surveys. Public Opinion Quarterly, 71(1), 113125.