Closed-ended questionnaire

Definition

A closed-ended questionnaire is a type of survey instrument that provides respondents with specific options to choose from when answering questions. These questions typically require participants to select a response from predefined categories, such as 'yes' or 'no,' or a range of numerical scales. This format allows for easier analysis of data and helps researchers quantify responses efficiently.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. Closed-ended questionnaires can lead to higher response rates because they are generally quicker and easier for respondents to complete compared to open-ended questions.
2. These questionnaires can provide data that is easier to analyze statistically, making them popular in quantitative research methods.
3. Closed-ended questions can sometimes limit the depth of responses, as they do not allow participants to express their thoughts in their own words.
4. Researchers must carefully design the response options in closed-ended questionnaires to avoid bias and ensure clarity for respondents.
5. Common examples of closed-ended questions include rating scales, dichotomous questions (yes/no), and checkbox questions where multiple answers may be allowed.

Review Questions

• How do closed-ended questionnaires facilitate data analysis compared to open-ended questionnaires?
  • Closed-ended questionnaires streamline data analysis because they generate quantitative data that can be easily categorized and statistically analyzed. Unlike open-ended responses, which require more subjective interpretation and coding, closed-ended responses yield clear, predefined answers. This efficiency allows researchers to quickly identify trends, patterns, and correlations within the collected data.
• What are some potential drawbacks of using closed-ended questionnaires in research?
  • One major drawback of closed-ended questionnaires is that they can limit the richness of the data collected, as respondents may feel constrained by the predefined answer choices. This restriction can lead to missed insights or nuances in participant opinions and experiences. Additionally, if the response options do not adequately cover the full range of possible answers, it may result in misleading conclusions or oversimplified interpretations of complex issues.
• Evaluate the role of closed-ended questionnaires in quantitative research methodologies and their impact on research outcomes.
  • Closed-ended questionnaires play a crucial role in quantitative research methodologies by providing structured data that facilitates statistical analysis. The standardized format enhances reliability by ensuring that all respondents answer in a consistent manner, which can improve the validity of the findings. However, researchers must balance the benefits of quantifiable data with the need for comprehensive understanding; poorly designed closed-ended questions may overlook important qualitative insights, potentially skewing research outcomes and leading to incomplete conclusions.

Related terms

Likert Scale: A Likert Scale is a popular type of closed-ended question that measures attitudes or opinions by asking respondents to indicate their level of agreement or disagreement on a symmetric agree-disagree scale.

Multiple Choice Question: A multiple choice question is a specific type of closed-ended question where respondents are presented with several options and must choose one or more answers from the provided list.

Quantitative Research: Quantitative research is a systematic investigation that primarily focuses on quantifying relationships, behaviors, or trends, often utilizing closed-ended questionnaires to gather numerical data.