https://spectrum.library.concordia.ca/976864/1/OkoliPawlowski2004DelphiPostprint.pdf

The Delphi method as a research tool: an example, design considerations and applications

The author suggests that we apply recent research knowledge to improve our conceptualization, measures, and methodology for studying the effects of teachers’ professional development on teachers and students. She makes the case that there is a research consensus to support the use of a set of core features and a common conceptual framework in professional development impact studies. She urges us to move away from automatic biases either for or against observation, interviews, or surveys in such studies. She argues that the use of a common conceptual framework would elevate the quality of professional development studies and subsequently the general understanding of how best to shape and implement teacher learning opportunities for the maximum benefit of both teachers and students.

/pdf/improving-impact-studies-of-teachers-professional-3pzi4k3euo.pdf

Improving Impact Studies of Teachers’ Professional Development: Toward Better Conceptualizations and Measures

The rapid growth of the Internet provides a wealth of new research opportunities for psychologists. Internet data collection methods, with a focus on self-report questionnaires from self-selected samples, are evaluated and compared with traditional paper-and-pencil methods. Six preconceptions about Internet samples and data quality are evaluated by comparing a new large Internet sample (N = 361,703) with a set of 510 published traditional samples. Internet samples are shown to be relatively diverse with respect to gender, socioeconomic status, geographic region, and age. Moreover, Internet findings generalize across presentation formats, are not adversely affected by nonserious or repeat responders, and are consistent with findings from traditional methods. It is concluded that Internet methods can contribute to many areas of psychology.

/pdf/should-we-trust-web-based-studies-a-comparative-analysis-of-23m9wnmwag.pdf

Should we trust web-based studies? A comparative analysis of six preconceptions about internet questionnaires.

This article is about differences between, and the adequacy of, response rates to online and paper‐based course and teaching evaluation surveys. Its aim is to provide practical guidance on these matters. The first part of the article gives an overview of online surveying in general, a review of data relating to survey response rates and practical advice to help boost response rates. The second part of the article discusses when a response rate may be considered large enough for the survey data to provide adequate evidence for accountability and improvement purposes. The article ends with suggestions for improving the effectiveness of evaluation strategy. These suggestions are: to seek to obtain the highest response rates possible to all surveys; to take account of probable effects of survey design and methods on the feedback obtained when interpreting that feedback; and to enhance this action by making use of data derived from multiple methods of gathering feedback.

/pdf/the-adequacy-of-response-rates-to-online-and-paper-surveys-4hqcr7fc2p.pdf

The adequacy of response rates to online and paper surveys: what can be done?

This article examines some advantages and disadvantages of conducting online survey research. It explores current features, issues, pricing, and limitations associated with products and services, such as online questionnaire features and services to facilitate the online survey process, such as those offered by web survey businesses. The review shows that current online survey products and services can vary considerably in terms of available features, consumer costs, and limitations. It is concluded that online survey researchers should conduct a careful assessment of their research goals, research timeline, and financial situation before choosing a specific product or service.

Researching Internet‐Based Populations: Advantages and Disadvantages of Online Survey Research, Online Questionnaire Authoring Software Packages, and Web Survey Services

Preface to the 2007 Update.Preface to the Second Edition.Acknowledgments.Part One: ELEMENTS OF THE TAILORED DESIGN METHOD.1 Introduction to Tailored Design.2 Writing Questions.3 Constructing the Questionnaire.4 Survey Implementation.5 Reduction of Coverage and Sampling Errors.Part Two: TAILORING TO THE SURVEY SITUATION.6 Mixed-Mode Surveys.7 Alternative Questionnaire Delivery: In Person, to Groups, and through Publications.8 When Timing Is Critical: Diary, Customer Satisfaction, and Election Forecast Surveys.9 Household and Individual Person Surveys by Government.10 Surveys of Businesses and Other Organizations.11 Internet and Interactive Voice Response Surveys.12 Optical Scanning and Imaging, and the Future of Self-Administered Surveys.References.2007 Appendix: Recent Developments in the Design of Web, Mail, and Mixed-Mode Surveys.Appendix References.Index.

Don A. Dillman

Papers

Mail and internet surveys : the tailored design method