Social Survey: Concepts, Characteristics, Types, Importance, Various Steps in Formulation and Reporting

Model MCQ's Research Methodology

1. A social survey is primarily concerned with:

(A) Psychological analysis of individuals

(B) Collecting data about human society

(D) Economic policies

(B) Collecting data about human society

Explanation: A social survey focuses on gathering data about societal trends, attitudes, behaviors, or conditions, typically for research purposes.

2. Which of the following is NOT a characteristic of a social survey?

(A) Systematic data collection

(B) Focus on a specific sample

(D) Uses standardized procedures

Explanation: Social surveys require formalized and standardized methods to ensure reliable and valid data collection, not informal methods.

3. The first step in formulating a social survey is:

(A) Data analysis

(B) Defining the research question

(D) Preparing the survey questionnaire

(B) Defining the research question

Explanation: Before collecting data, it's essential to clearly define the research question to guide the focus of the survey.

4. Which of the following is an example of a qualitative social survey?

(A) A survey measuring the income level of a population

(B) A survey assessing people's opinions on social issues

(D) A survey on political party affiliation

(B) A survey assessing people's opinions on social issues

Explanation: Qualitative surveys explore the opinions, behaviors, and experiences of individuals, often through open-ended questions, unlike quantitative surveys that focus on numerical data.

5. Social surveys are important because they:

(A) Provide personal opinions of individuals

(B) Are focused on individual case studies

(D) Help in understanding societal problems and solutions

Explanation: Social surveys are crucial for understanding social phenomena, guiding policy decisions, and finding solutions to societal problems.

6. In a social survey, which sampling method involves selecting participants randomly from a population?

(A) Snowball sampling

(B) Systematic sampling

(D) Convenience sampling

Explanation: Random sampling ensures that every individual in the population has an equal chance of being selected, thus enhancing the survey's representativeness.

7. A key limitation of social surveys is:

(A) They may be influenced by bias or error in responses

(B) They are always accurate

(D) They cannot be used to generalize findings

(A) They may be influenced by bias or error in responses

Explanation: Social surveys can be subject to bias or error, particularly if respondents do not answer truthfully or if the survey design is flawed.

8. Which of the following is a type of survey that collects data by observing social behavior in natural settings?

(A) Structured survey

(B) Case study survey

(D) Mail survey

Explanation: Observational surveys involve collecting data by observing individuals' behaviors in their natural environment, as opposed to controlled settings.

9. The final step in reporting a social survey is:

(A) Data collection

(B) Data analysis

(D) Presentation of findings

Explanation: After analyzing the data, the findings are presented in a report, which may include recommendations and conclusions drawn from the survey.

10. Which of the following is a characteristic of a social survey?

(A) Uses standardized and objective methods

(B) Uses interviews for in-depth personal information

(D) Primarily focuses on a single individual

(A) Uses standardized and objective methods

Explanation: Social surveys use standardized, objective methods to ensure that the data collected is reliable and can be generalized to a larger population.

11. Which of the following is a type of social survey used to collect large-scale data from a sample of the population?

(A) Case study survey

(B) Cross-sectional survey

(D) Longitudinal survey

(B) Cross-sectional survey

Explanation: A cross-sectional survey is used to gather data from a population at a specific point in time, often for descriptive analysis of current conditions.

12. The validity of a social survey is primarily determined by:

(A) The randomness of the sample

(B) The number of respondents

(D) The complexity of the questions

Explanation: A survey's validity depends on its design, including how well the survey instruments (like questionnaires) measure what they are intended to measure.

13. What is the main purpose of the sampling process in a social survey?

(A) To analyze all individuals in the population

(B) To select a representative group that mirrors the larger population

(D) To focus on specific demographics only

(B) To select a representative group that mirrors the larger population

Explanation: The purpose of sampling is to choose a subset of individuals that reflects the broader population, allowing generalizations to be made from the survey results.

14. The term "survey bias" refers to:

(A) The variation in data collected from different regions

(B) The use of unreliable data collection tools

(D) The tendency of respondents to answer questions in a socially desirable way

Explanation: Survey bias occurs when responses are influenced by factors such as social desirability or leading questions, resulting in skewed data.

15. Which of the following is an advantage of a longitudinal survey over a cross-sectional survey?

(A) It gathers data from multiple time points

(B) It is quicker and less expensive

(D) It collects data from a larger sample

(A) It gathers data from multiple time points

Explanation: Longitudinal surveys track changes in the same sample over time, which is useful for studying trends and long-term effects.

16. The type of social survey where a researcher uses structured interviews to gather in-depth information from individuals is called:

(A) Exploratory survey

(B) Descriptive survey

(D) Cohort survey

Explanation: A case study survey uses in-depth interviews or observations to gather detailed information about a single individual or a small group.

17. The main goal of analyzing survey data is to:

(A) Identify the most popular answers

(B) Understand patterns and trends in the data

(D) Eliminate outliers

(B) Understand patterns and trends in the data

Explanation: The goal of analyzing survey data is to identify patterns, trends, and correlations that can provide insights into the research question.

18. Which of the following best describes a "mixed-method" social survey?

(A) A survey that only uses qualitative data

(B) A survey conducted by phone and online

(D) A survey that combines both qualitative and quantitative data

Explanation: Mixed-method surveys combine both qualitative and quantitative approaches, providing a fuller understanding of a research problem.

19. In a social survey, "non-response bias" occurs when:

(A) Respondents refuse to answer questions

(B) There is a discrepancy between the survey's sample and the population

(D) Respondents are not aware of the survey's purpose

(B) There is a discrepancy between the survey's sample and the population

Explanation: Non-response bias happens when certain groups within the sample do not respond, causing the survey results to be unrepresentative of the entire population.

20. The final report of a social survey should include all of the following EXCEPT:

(A) Personal opinions of the researcher

(B) A clear statement of findings

(D) A description of the survey methodology

(A) Personal opinions of the researcher

Explanation: The final report should focus on objective findings and recommendations, not personal opinions of the researcher.

21. Which of the following is a key advantage of using surveys for social research?

(A) They are time-consuming and expensive

(B) They require no data analysis

(D) They can collect data from a large sample size

Explanation: Surveys can be conducted with a large number of participants, allowing researchers to gather data that is more representative of the population.

22. The purpose of a pilot survey is to:

(A) Test the validity of the research question

(B) Collect final data for the survey

(D) Select the sample for the survey

Explanation: A pilot survey is conducted on a small sample to identify any issues or flaws in the survey design before the full survey is implemented.

23. Which of the following best describes "sampling bias" in a social survey?

(A) Bias due to personal preferences of the researcher

(B) Bias that occurs when the sample does not represent the population accurately

(D) Bias caused by the respondent's age

(B) Bias that occurs when the sample does not represent the population accurately

Explanation: Sampling bias occurs when the sample chosen for a survey does not accurately reflect the diversity of the population being studied, leading to skewed results.

24. Which of the following is true about the "snowball sampling" method?

(A) It involves participants selecting their own peers to participate

(B) It is the most reliable method for large-scale surveys

(D) It is used for randomly selecting participants

(A) It involves participants selecting their own peers to participate

Explanation: Snowball sampling is a non-probability technique where initial participants refer others, leading to a chain of recruitment, often used for hard-to-reach populations.

25. In which type of social survey are participants observed in their natural environment without any interference from the researcher?

(A) Experimental survey

(B) Observational survey

(D) Cross-sectional survey

(B) Observational survey

Explanation: In observational surveys, the researcher collects data by observing participants in their natural environment without manipulating any variables.

26. The method of conducting social surveys that involves gathering data through questionnaires mailed to participants is called:

(A) Face-to-face survey

(B) Telephone survey

(D) Online survey

Explanation: A mail survey is conducted by sending questionnaires to participants through the postal system, which they complete and return to the researcher.

27. Which of the following is NOT a step in the social survey process?

(A) Identifying the research question

(B) Collecting data through interviews

(D) Conducting a statistical analysis of historical events

Explanation: The analysis of historical events is not typically part of the social survey process. Social surveys focus on collecting current data from a defined sample.

28. Which of the following is a common method for ensuring the reliability of data in a social survey?

(A) Using open-ended questions exclusively

(B) Conducting the survey at different times of day

(D) Collecting data from a small sample

Explanation: Using multiple data collection tools, such as surveys, interviews, and observations, helps ensure the reliability of the data by cross-validating the findings.

29. The ethical responsibility of a researcher conducting a social survey includes:

(A) Manipulating data to achieve desired outcomes

(B) Ensuring participants' anonymity and confidentiality

(D) Skipping data collection if it's too costly

(B) Ensuring participants' anonymity and confidentiality

Explanation: Ethical responsibility includes ensuring that participants' personal information is protected and that their identities remain anonymous or confidential.

30. Which of the following is an example of "closed-ended" questions in a social survey?

(A) "What do you think about the current political situation?"

(B) "What is your opinion on climate change?"

(D) "Do you support environmental policies? Yes or No?"

Explanation: Closed-ended questions provide predefined options for the participant to choose from, making them easy to analyze statistically.

31. Which of the following is NOT a type of data that social surveys typically collect?

(A) Qualitative data

(B) Quantitative data

(D) Descriptive data

Explanation: Social surveys typically collect descriptive, qualitative, or quantitative data, but not experimental data, which involves controlled experiments.

32. Which type of survey is best suited for collecting data about attitudes and opinions?

(A) Cross-sectional survey

(B) Attitudinal survey

(D) Observational survey

(B) Attitudinal survey

Explanation: Attitudinal surveys are designed to gather data on people's attitudes, beliefs, and opinions about particular topics.

33. Which of the following is the best example of a non-probability sampling method?

(A) Simple random sampling

(B) Stratified sampling

(D) Systematic sampling

Explanation: Convenience sampling involves selecting participants who are easiest to reach, making it a non-probability sampling method.

34. In a social survey, the "response rate" refers to:

(A) The number of participants selected

(B) The percentage of respondents who complete the survey

(D) The number of questions answered in the survey

(B) The percentage of respondents who complete the survey

Explanation: The response rate is the percentage of people who respond to the survey, compared to the total number of people who were invited to participate.

35. The main objective of a longitudinal survey is to:

(A) Analyze trends and changes over a period of time

(B) Gather data at one point in time

(D) Compare different groups at a single point in time

(A) Analyze trends and changes over a period of time

Explanation: Longitudinal surveys are used to track changes and trends within the same group over time, making them ideal for studying long-term effects.

36. In a social survey, the "pilot test" is used to:

(A) Select the sample participants

(B) Determine the appropriate questions for the survey

(D) Collect data for the final report

Explanation: A pilot test helps to identify any issues in the survey design, such as unclear questions, before it is distributed to the full sample.

37. What is the main purpose of "data triangulation" in social surveys?

(A) To compare data from multiple sources for validation

(B) To use one method of data collection for consistency

(D) To gather data from only one demographic group

(A) To compare data from multiple sources for validation

Explanation: Data triangulation involves using different methods or sources of data to increase the validity and reliability of the survey results.

38. Which of the following is an example of a "structured" question in a social survey?

(A) "Tell us how you feel about social media."

(B) "What is your age? (Please circle one: 18-25, 26-35, 36-45, 46+)"

(D) "Do you support renewable energy initiatives? (Yes/No)"

(B) "What is your age? (Please circle one: 18-25, 26-35, 36-45, 46+)"

Explanation: Structured questions provide specific response options, making them easy to analyze statistically, as opposed to open-ended questions.

39. In a social survey, "response bias" refers to:

(A) Participants failing to answer all the questions

(B) Collecting data from an unrepresentative sample

(D) The tendency of respondents to provide socially acceptable answers

Explanation: Response bias occurs when participants give answers they believe are socially acceptable rather than their true opinions, leading to inaccurate data.

40. A key feature of a "descriptive" survey is:

(A) It tests hypotheses and makes predictions

(B) It only collects qualitative data

(D) It uses experimental methods to control variables

Explanation: Descriptive surveys are designed to describe the characteristics of a population or phenomenon, without attempting to explain causal relationships.

41. Which of the following is a feature of a "structured" questionnaire used in social surveys?

(A) It contains open-ended questions

(B) It provides predetermined response options

(D) It is always anonymous

(B) It provides predetermined response options

Explanation: A structured questionnaire provides specific, predefined response options for participants, making it easier to analyze and compare data.

42. Which of the following best describes a "probability sampling" method?

(A) Every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected

(B) Participants are selected based on the convenience of the researcher

(D) Participants are chosen randomly from a predetermined list

(A) Every member of the population has an equal chance of being selected

Explanation: Probability sampling gives every member of the population an equal chance of being selected, ensuring that the sample is representative of the population.

43. In the context of a social survey, "data saturation" refers to:

(A) The point at which no new data is being collected from additional participants

(B) The point at which all questions are answered

(D) The point when the sample size is large enough

(A) The point at which no new data is being collected from additional participants

Explanation: Data saturation occurs when further data collection no longer provides new insights, typically indicating that the sample size is sufficient.

44. Which of the following is a limitation of using mail surveys in social research?

(A) High response rates

(B) Lack of interaction between the researcher and participants

(D) Ability to reach a large sample quickly

(B) Lack of interaction between the researcher and participants

Explanation: Mail surveys often lack direct interaction with participants, which can result in lower response rates and fewer opportunities for clarification.

45. A "cross-sectional survey" is best used to:

(A) Study changes over time

(B) Test causal relationships

(D) Collect data at one point in time from a population

Explanation: A cross-sectional survey collects data from a population at one specific point in time, often used to assess current conditions or attitudes.

46. When conducting a social survey, which of the following is most important in ensuring the survey's reliability?

(A) Using a complex questionnaire

(B) Selecting a random sample from the population

(D) Focusing only on qualitative data

(B) Selecting a random sample from the population

Explanation: A random sample ensures that the survey results are representative of the population, increasing the reliability of the data collected.

47. In social survey methodology, "response rate" is:

(A) The percentage of surveys completed and returned

(B) The number of questions answered correctly

(D) The amount of time taken to complete the survey

(A) The percentage of surveys completed and returned

Explanation: The response rate refers to the proportion of surveys completed and returned by the participants out of the total number sent.

48. Which type of social survey is most suitable for studying trends and changes over a long period?

(A) Cross-sectional survey

(B) Experimental survey

(D) Case study survey

Explanation: Longitudinal surveys are conducted over a long period of time to track changes or trends within the same sample, making them ideal for studying temporal changes.

49. The "sampling frame" in a social survey refers to:

(A) A list of all possible participants from which the sample is drawn

(B) A set of instructions for how the survey is to be conducted

(D) A list of questions to ask in the survey

(A) A list of all possible participants from which the sample is drawn

Explanation: The sampling frame is the actual list or database of individuals from which a sample is drawn for the survey, ensuring the sample is representative of the population.

50. In the context of survey data analysis, "descriptive statistics" refers to:

(A) Statistical tests that infer conclusions about a population

(B) Methods used to summarize or describe the characteristics of the data

(D) The process of testing hypotheses

(B) Methods used to summarize or describe the characteristics of the data

Explanation: Descriptive statistics are used to summarize or describe the main features of a dataset, such as the mean, median, and mode.

51. The main purpose of using a "stratified sampling" technique in social surveys is to:

(A) Ensure every participant has an equal chance of being selected

(B) Focus on one specific subgroup of the population

(D) Avoid random selection of participants

Explanation: Stratified sampling divides the population into distinct groups based on certain characteristics, and then samples from each group to ensure representation across the population.

52. Which of the following is the primary difference between qualitative and quantitative data in social surveys?

(A) Qualitative data involves numbers, while quantitative data is descriptive

(B) Qualitative data focuses on narrative descriptions, while quantitative data focuses on numerical values

(D) Quantitative data cannot be used for statistical analysis

(B) Qualitative data focuses on narrative descriptions, while quantitative data focuses on numerical values

Explanation: Qualitative data is non-numeric and focuses on descriptions and insights, while quantitative data involves numerical values that can be measured and analyzed statistically.

53. A "focus group" in social surveys is typically used to:

(A) Gather in-depth insights on specific topics from a small group of participants

(B) Collect a large sample of survey responses

(D) Conduct random sampling

(A) Gather in-depth insights on specific topics from a small group of participants

Explanation: A focus group involves a small group of participants discussing specific topics, providing rich qualitative insights that can help inform survey design or provide context to survey results.

54. In social survey methodology, "response rate" can be influenced by:

(A) The complexity of the survey questions

(B) The method of survey distribution

(D) All of the above

Explanation: The response rate can be affected by the complexity, length, and distribution method of the survey, as these factors influence participant willingness to complete the survey.

55. Which of the following is a key characteristic of "descriptive" surveys?

(A) They collect data about specific relationships between variables

(B) They are used to describe characteristics of a population

(D) They are always qualitative in nature

(B) They are used to describe characteristics of a population

Explanation: Descriptive surveys are designed to collect data that describes the characteristics of a population, such as attitudes, behaviors, or demographic information.

56. In social surveys, the term "sampling error" refers to:

(A) Mistakes made in data collection

(B) The time it takes to complete the survey

(D) The difference between the sample result and the true population value

Explanation: Sampling error occurs when the sample's characteristics do not perfectly reflect those of the entire population, leading to discrepancies between sample results and true population values.

57. Which of the following is a limitation of using observational surveys?

(A) They can be time-consuming and costly

(B) They rely on the honesty of participants

(D) They can only collect qualitative data

(A) They can be time-consuming and costly

Explanation: Observational surveys often require significant time and resources to monitor participants' behavior in natural settings, making them potentially costly and time-consuming.

58. In social surveys, "data cleaning" is the process of:

(A) Collecting data from all participants

(B) Removing invalid or incomplete responses from the dataset

(D) Reporting findings to stakeholders

(B) Removing invalid or incomplete responses from the dataset

Explanation: Data cleaning involves identifying and correcting errors or inconsistencies in the data, such as removing incomplete or incorrect responses before analysis.

59. Which of the following is a typical method for ensuring that survey results are generalizable to the population?

(A) Using a non-random sample

(B) Ensuring the survey is distributed equally to all demographic groups

(D) Limiting the survey to a small, specific group

(B) Ensuring the survey is distributed equally to all demographic groups

Explanation: To make survey results generalizable, the survey should be distributed in a way that ensures all relevant demographic groups are represented in the sample.

60. Which of the following best describes a "longitudinal" study in the context of social surveys?

(A) A study that observes a population at a single point in time

(B) A study that focuses on historical data

(D) A study that follows the same sample over an extended period of time

Explanation: A longitudinal study involves repeated observations of the same sample over time, allowing researchers to track changes or trends in the data.

61. Which of the following is an example of a "qualitative" method used in social surveys?

(A) Using a Likert scale to measure attitudes

(B) Collecting numerical data on population demographics

(D) Counting the number of people who support a policy

Explanation: Qualitative methods focus on exploring participants' attitudes, beliefs, and experiences in depth, often through interviews or open-ended questions.

62. The "unit of analysis" in a social survey refers to:

(A) The specific individual or group being studied

(B) The population from which the sample is drawn

(D) The total number of survey participants

(A) The specific individual or group being studied

Explanation: The unit of analysis refers to the individual, group, organization, or phenomenon that is being studied in the survey.

63. The term "survey instrument" refers to:

(A) The software used to analyze survey data

(B) The method used to select participants

(D) The results of a survey

Explanation: A survey instrument is any tool used to gather data from participants, including questionnaires, surveys, or interview guides.

64. A major advantage of "online surveys" over traditional face-to-face surveys is:

(A) Greater response rate

(B) Cost-effectiveness and speed of data collection

(D) Easier to analyze complex data

(B) Cost-effectiveness and speed of data collection

Explanation: Online surveys are cost-effective, as they eliminate the need for physical materials and enable quick distribution and data collection.

65. The term "statistical significance" in survey data analysis refers to:

(A) The importance of a finding in practical terms

(B) The average score of all respondents

(D) The likelihood that the results occurred by chance

Explanation: Statistical significance tests the likelihood that the results of a survey are not due to chance, providing confidence in the reliability of the findings.

66. Which of the following is a limitation of using "telephone surveys" in social research?

(A) High cost compared to online surveys

(B) Inability to reach hard-to-reach populations

(D) Limited to open-ended questions only

(B) Inability to reach hard-to-reach populations

Explanation: Telephone surveys may exclude people who do not have access to phones, or who are difficult to contact, limiting the survey's representativeness.

67. In social surveys, "generalizability" refers to:

(A) The ability to apply the survey results to the entire population

(B) The use of complex statistical techniques

(D) The ability to predict future outcomes

(A) The ability to apply the survey results to the entire population

Explanation: Generalizability refers to how well the results of a survey can be applied to the larger population from which the sample was drawn.

68. The use of "probability sampling" methods helps to:

(A) Ensure that every participant is willing to participate

(B) Reduce the risk of selection bias

(D) Avoid non-response bias

(B) Reduce the risk of selection bias

Explanation: Probability sampling ensures that each member of the population has an equal chance of being selected, reducing the risk of selection bias and making the sample more representative.

69. A key factor in determining the sample size for a social survey is:

(A) The expected response rate

(B) The budget allocated for the survey

(D) The length of the survey

Explanation: The sample size is typically determined by the desired level of precision or margin of error, which dictates how closely the sample results will approximate the population's true values.

70. The term "response bias" in survey research refers to:

(A) The tendency for respondents to choose answers that reflect socially desirable responses

(B) The tendency for respondents to skip questions

(D) The randomness of participant selection

(A) The tendency for respondents to choose answers that reflect socially desirable responses

Explanation: Response bias occurs when respondents provide answers that they think are socially acceptable, rather than their true thoughts, which can distort the survey results.

71. A "mixed-method" survey typically involves:

(A) Only quantitative data collection techniques

(B) Combining both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques

(D) Using observational techniques only

(B) Combining both qualitative and quantitative data collection techniques

Explanation: Mixed-method surveys combine both qualitative (descriptive) and quantitative (numerical) data collection methods to provide a comprehensive understanding of the research problem.

72. In the context of social surveys, "sampling frame" refers to:

(A) The list of all potential survey participants

(B) The list of questions used in the survey

(D) The group of people who agreed to participate in the survey

(A) The list of all potential survey participants

Explanation: The sampling frame is the complete list of all individuals in the population who are eligible to be selected for the survey sample.

73. In a social survey, "survey fatigue" occurs when:

(A) Respondents provide incomplete answers

(B) Respondents lose interest due to the length or repetitiveness of the survey

(D) The survey is too focused on a specific demographic

(B) Respondents lose interest due to the length or repetitiveness of the survey

Explanation: Survey fatigue occurs when participants become bored or disengaged from the survey, leading to incomplete or inaccurate responses.

74. In a social survey, "data triangulation" involves:

(A) Using different methods or sources to verify data

(B) Collecting data from multiple time points

(D) Excluding irrelevant data from the results

(A) Using different methods or sources to verify data

Explanation: Data triangulation refers to using multiple methods or data sources to ensure the validity and reliability of the survey results.

75. Which of the following is an example of a "closed-ended" question?

(A) "What do you think about the current political situation?"

(B) "What is your age group? (Please select one: 18-25, 26-35, 36-45, 46+)"

(D) "How do you feel about climate change?"

(B) "What is your age group? (Please select one: 18-25, 26-35, 36-45, 46+)"

Explanation: Closed-ended questions provide a limited set of predefined responses, making it easy to analyze statistically.

76. The "confidence level" in a social survey refers to:

(A) The reliability of survey responses

(B) The level of certainty that the survey results are accurate within a given margin of error

(D) The average time taken to complete the survey

(B) The level of certainty that the survey results are accurate within a given margin of error

Explanation: The confidence level represents the degree of certainty that the survey results reflect the true population values, usually expressed as a percentage.

77. A key feature of "cluster sampling" is:

(A) Selecting individuals from the entire population randomly

(B) Collecting data only from the most relevant demographic group

(D) Dividing the population into groups and selecting clusters to represent the whole population

Explanation: Cluster sampling involves dividing the population into smaller groups (clusters) and randomly selecting some of these clusters to represent the entire population.

78. Which of the following is a disadvantage of using "face-to-face interviews" for data collection in a social survey?

(A) They provide high response rates

(B) They allow for in-depth responses and clarification

(D) They can easily be scaled to large populations

Explanation: Face-to-face interviews are resource-intensive, as they require trained interviewers, significant time, and travel expenses, making them costly and time-consuming.

79. The process of "coding" in survey research refers to:

(A) Decoding respondents' answers for analysis

(B) Grouping responses into categories or themes for analysis

(D) The mathematical analysis of survey data

(B) Grouping responses into categories or themes for analysis

Explanation: Coding is the process of categorizing open-ended responses into predefined categories or themes to facilitate analysis.

80. A key ethical concern when conducting social surveys is:

(A) Ensuring that respondents are paid for their participation

(B) Making sure that the survey questions are difficult to answer

(D) Collecting data only from one demographic group

Explanation: Ethical concerns in social surveys include ensuring that participants' identities and responses are kept confidential and that they are informed about how their data will be used.

81. The primary reason for using a "random sample" in a social survey is to:

(A) Ensure that the sample is representative of the population

(B) Avoid the use of complex statistical methods

(D) Focus on a specific group of respondents

(A) Ensure that the sample is representative of the population

Explanation: A random sample ensures that every individual in the population has an equal chance of being selected, making the sample more likely to be representative of the larger population.

82. "Systematic sampling" involves:

(A) Selecting participants based on a prearranged order

(B) Using only one type of data collection method

(D) Selecting participants at random from the entire population

(D) Selecting participants based on a prearranged order

Explanation: In systematic sampling, participants are selected at regular intervals from an ordered list of the population, ensuring a spread across the entire sample.

83. In social surveys, a "response rate" is important because it indicates:

(A) The level of accuracy of the survey results

(B) How many people completed the survey relative to how many were invited

(D) The total number of participants who dropped out

(B) How many people completed the survey relative to how many were invited

Explanation: The response rate is a key metric in social surveys as it shows how many invited participants actually completed the survey, helping assess the validity and representativeness of the results.

84. Which of the following is an example of "quantitative" data in a social survey?

(A) Numerical data such as income levels or age

(B) Open-ended answers to questions about opinions

(D) Themes derived from participant interviews

(A) Numerical data such as income levels or age

Explanation: Quantitative data consists of numerical information that can be measured and analyzed statistically, such as age, income, or education level.

85. A "cross-sectional survey" is most useful for:

(A) Studying the cause and effect of changes over time

(B) Measuring attitudes or behaviors at one point in time

(D) Tracking the progress of an intervention

(B) Measuring attitudes or behaviors at one point in time

Explanation: Cross-sectional surveys capture a snapshot of a population's characteristics, attitudes, or behaviors at a single point in time.

86. When conducting a social survey, "data collection methods" include all of the following EXCEPT:

(A) Questionnaires

(B) Interviews

(D) Observations

Explanation: Data collection in social surveys involves gathering information through methods like questionnaires, interviews, and observations. Experimental manipulation, however, is part of experimental research, not survey research.

87. Which of the following is an advantage of using "structured interviews" in social surveys?

(A) They provide consistent and comparable data across participants

(B) They allow for open-ended, exploratory responses

(D) They are less expensive than other methods

(A) They provide consistent and comparable data across participants

Explanation: Structured interviews use a standard set of questions, which helps to collect consistent and comparable data from all participants, making analysis easier.

88. "Validity" in a social survey refers to:

(A) The accuracy of the data collection methods

(B) The extent to which the survey measures what it is supposed to measure

(D) The time taken to complete the survey

(B) The extent to which the survey measures what it is supposed to measure

Explanation: Validity refers to how well a survey measures what it intends to measure. For example, a survey on job satisfaction should accurately reflect the participants' true level of job satisfaction.

89. The purpose of "data cleaning" in social survey research is to:

(A) Remove irrelevant data points

(B) Add more respondents to the survey

(D) Organize the data into thematic categories

Explanation: Data cleaning involves identifying and fixing errors, inconsistencies, or missing values in the data before analysis to ensure accurate results.

90. Which of the following is the first step in conducting a social survey?

(A) Designing the survey questionnaire

(B) Analyzing the collected data

(D) Defining the research question or problem

Explanation: The first step in conducting a social survey is to define the research question or problem, as this will guide the survey design and data collection process.

91. Which of the following is a key benefit of using "open-ended" questions in social surveys?

(A) They provide standardized, easily quantifiable responses

(B) They allow participants to express their thoughts in their own words

(D) They are easier to analyze statistically

(B) They allow participants to express their thoughts in their own words

Explanation: Open-ended questions give respondents the opportunity to provide detailed, descriptive answers in their own words, providing richer qualitative data.

92. In the context of social surveys, "non-probability sampling" methods are:

(A) More accurate than probability sampling methods

(B) Based on random selection of participants

(D) Typically easier and cheaper but may lead to biased results

Explanation: Non-probability sampling methods, like convenience sampling, are easier and cheaper but can lead to bias since they do not ensure that every individual has an equal chance of selection.

93. What does "data triangulation" in survey research refer to?

(A) Using multiple data sources or methods to validate findings

(B) Analyzing data using multiple statistical tests

(D) Comparing data from different time periods

(A) Using multiple data sources or methods to validate findings

Explanation: Data triangulation involves using different data sources or methods to confirm the reliability and validity of survey results, increasing the robustness of the findings.

94. In social survey research, "quota sampling" is:

(A) A type of probability sampling

(B) Used to select participants randomly

(D) Focused on collecting data from a single group of participants

Explanation: Quota sampling is a non-probability method where participants are selected to represent certain characteristics or groups in the population, but not randomly.

95. The term "sampling bias" refers to:

(A) Bias introduced by incorrect data analysis

(B) The selection of participants in a way that doesn't represent the entire population

(D) Bias due to interviewer errors

(B) The selection of participants in a way that doesn't represent the entire population

Explanation: Sampling bias occurs when the sample selected for the survey is not representative of the population, leading to inaccurate or skewed results.

96. "Reliability" in a social survey refers to:

(A) The degree to which the results can be generalized to the population

(B) The depth of analysis performed on the data

(D) The consistency of the results when the survey is repeated

Explanation: Reliability refers to the consistency of the results when the same survey is administered multiple times under similar conditions.

97. Which of the following is a limitation of "self-administered surveys" (e.g., online or paper surveys)?

(A) They require a lot of time to analyze the data

(B) They can suffer from low response rates

(D) They involve more interviewer bias

(B) They can suffer from low response rates

Explanation: Self-administered surveys, such as online or paper surveys, often experience low response rates, especially if participants are not reminded to complete the survey.

98. The "social desirability bias" in survey research refers to:

(A) The tendency of respondents to answer in a way that reflects social expectations or norms

(B) The difficulty respondents face in recalling information

(D) The unwillingness of participants to answer sensitive questions

(A) The tendency of respondents to answer in a way that reflects social expectations or norms

Explanation: Social desirability bias occurs when respondents provide answers that they believe are socially acceptable, rather than their true beliefs, to avoid judgment or embarrassment.

99. The "margin of error" in a social survey refers to:

(A) The error introduced by faulty data collection methods

(B) The difference between the sample results and the true population values

(D) The time allowed for respondents to complete the survey

(B) The difference between the sample results and the true population values

Explanation: The margin of error reflects the range within which the true population value is likely to fall, considering the sampling variability of the survey.

100. Which of the following best describes "ethical considerations" in social surveys?

(A) Ensuring that participants are not harmed and their confidentiality is maintained

(B) Ensuring that the survey data is analyzed using statistical methods

(D) Ensuring that all data is collected from secondary sources

(A) Ensuring that participants are not harmed and their confidentiality is maintained

Explanation: Ethical considerations in social surveys involve ensuring participants' safety, confidentiality, and informed consent, and avoiding harm during the data collection process.

Social Survey: Concepts, Characteristics, Types, Importance, Various Steps in Formulation and Reporting

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