Research Project Survey
Background: Quantitative communication research is another important
tool for a professional communication researcher, with surveys being the most
common and versatile example of this type of research.
Research Question: The specific research question to be addressed by the
survey will develop from the semester topic and previous research conducted in
your literature review and in-depth interview. The instructor must approve the
question before the survey is conducted.
Assignment. The student will develop, implement and report on a survey
of the research question. In preparation for this research, each student will
(1) define the specific research question related to the semester research
focus, (2) articulate objectives for the survey, and (3) develop a
questionnaire. All of this should be based on your initial literature reviews
and interviews. You will then implement the survey, administering the questionnaire
to at least 50 respondents. The team will then use available software to enter
data and calculate findings. Finally, the team will submit a written report
outlining the objectives and methodology, summarizing the findings, and as
appropriate noting conclusions. Percentages are appropriate as statistics for
this survey. Include at least six charts/graphs to visually present the
statistical findings. The final report also must include a calculation of the
margin of error at a 95 percent confidence level (online calculators are
available at www.americanresearchgroup.com/moe.html and http://www.raosoft.com/samplesize.html.
Presentation: This assignment should be typed with double spacing.
Clearly label each part of the assignment with boldface type or an underline.
Include the completed questionnaires.
Evaluation Rubric for Survey:
Research report
/10 Part 1: Objectives, methodology & logistics (population, sample, location,
margin of error)
/30 Part 2: Data findings & research observations (results, demographic
break-out, percentages)
/20 Part 3: Discussion, conclusion, recommendations for client
/10 Graphics (charts & graphs)
/15 Writing (language usage, punctuation, spelling, professional appearance)
Appendix
/15 Appendix A: Questionnaire (appropriateness of items, relevance, format)
with item commentary noting the purpose for including each item
