A Systematic Approach to Understanding Trade-Offs when Designing and Remodelling Social Surveys

Sessions and Times

Two sessions, 09:00 to 12:30.

Overview

This course outlines a comprehensive framework for understanding the trade-offs involved in designing and remodelling social surveys. This framework is rooted in the Total Survey Error and Total Survey Quality approaches, balancing the need to reduce sources of error against the constraints of a project, time, and costs. Using real-life examples and case studies, the course discusses the advantages and disadvantages of different research designs, with a focus on mixed-mode surveys, and the key steps involved in making informed decisions and remodelling surveys.

Topics Covered

  • Theoretical frameworks and their applications in optimal survey design.
  • The risks of measurement and selection effects.
  • Advantages and disadvantages of various research designs, with a focus on mixed-mode surveys.
  • Trade-offs in designing and remodelling social surveys.
  • Key steps in making informed decisions when designing and remodelling surveys.

Learning Outcomes

By the end of the course participants will:

  • be familiar with the application of the Total Survey Error and Total Survey Quality frameworks for optimal survey design.
  • improve their research design skills and their ability to evaluate and critique existing designs.
  • have a better knowledge of the advantages and disadvantages of different research designs, with a focus on mixed-mode surveys.
  • understand the trade-offs involved in designing and remodelling social surveys.
  • understand the key steps involved in designing and remodelling social surveys.

Target Audience

Attendees should be familiar with the design of survey research, either through coursework or work experience. A basic understanding of quantitative research methods, and survey concepts is expected. No experience with data analysis software is required for this course.

Cost

This course is offered at discounted rates for students, academic, public sector and research staff through our partnership with the University of Southampton.

£35 for UK registered postgraduate students.

£70 for staff at UK/EU academic institutions, UK/EU Research Councils/UKRI Researchers, UK/EU public sector staff, UK/EU registered charity organisations and recognised UK/EU research institutions.

£250 for all other participants.