Survey Research Methods, Third Edition (Applied Social Research Methods Series Volume 1)

By Floyd J. Fowler Jr.

Book Overview

Popular with over 49,000 readers for giving those who want to collect, analyze, or read about survey data, a sound basis for evaluating how each aspect of a survey can affect its precision, accuracy, and credibility, this new edition presents the latest methodological knowledge on survey research. New to this edition is coverage of:

Improved techniques for evaluating survey questions The latest options available to researchers in using the computer and the internet for surveysRecent methodological findings to enhance survey research

With an emphasis on the importance of minimizing nonsampling errors through superior question design, quality interviewing, and high response rates, this book helps readers understand the relationship of data collection to figures and statistics based on the survey--and how much confidence to place in the reported results based on this relationship.

• Format: Paperback
• Language: English
• ISBN: 0761921915
• ISBN13: 9780761921912
• Release Date: August 2001
• Publisher: Sage Publications
• Length: 179 Pages
• Weight: 0.56 lbs.
• Dimensions: 8.3" x 0.3" x 5.3"

Customer Reviews

Good basic work on survey research

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. . . .

Survey Research Methods

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

Good book for basic methods

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.