In the context of major data collection methods, what are the strengths of surveys?

Question

What will be an ideal response?

Answer 1

Answers will vary. Surveys are usually inexpensive, simple to administer, and have a fast turnaround. Self-administered questionnaires can be mailed to thousands of respondents. Having a large number of cases is important in describing, analyzing, and explaining many variables simultaneously. Telephone interviews are popular because they're a relatively inexpensive way to collect data. Face-to-face interviews have high response rates (often up to 85 percent) because they involve personal contact. People are more likely to discuss sensitive issues in an interview than via a mailed questionnaire, a phone survey, or electronic survey. If respondents do not understand a question, are reluctant to answer, or give incomplete answers, interviewers can clarify, keep respondents from digressing, or probe by asking respondents to elaborate on an answer.With the innovation of "robo-polls," the entire interview is conducted by a programmed recording that interprets the respondent's spoken answers, records them, and determines how to continue the interview. This method is cost-effective because it cuts out the cost of hiring people, but respondents may be more reluctant to answer sensitive questions.Online surveys, like mail surveys, are relatively inexpensive to administer, and the responses can be tabulated quickly. Online surveys are particularly appropriate for certain targeted groups and can increase the pool of people who are increasingly difficult to reach by phone. Online surveys can also provide respondents with visual material, including videos, to look at and respond to.