Instrument Construction - Be able to develop and refine questionnaires and interview guides for survey research that have satisfactory validity, reliability, and generalizability. Data Collection - Understand rationales and procedures for use of questionnaires and interview guides for collection of research or evaluation data. Data Analysis - Understand descriptive and inferential procedures for analysis of survey research data, including multivariate techniques. Reporting - Be able to prepare a clear, complete, and accurate written research report. Acquisition of Proficiency Beginning doctoral students vary greatly in the extent to which they have acquired the foregoing proficiencies regarding survey research methods.
Students also vary in the ways in which they prefer to acquire additional proficiency.
Listed below are four types of resources that students and advisors should consider in formulating a plan for acquisition of proficiency. The types are methodological literature, credit courses, non-credit courses, and research experience. Typical student plans for acquisition of proficiency will include most of these types of resources. Preparation of a written plan assures agreement between advisee and advisor. Methodological Literature - A bibliography of writings relevant to survey research methods is attached.