ABSTRACT
Undoubtedly, everyone reading this chapter has at some time or other participated in a form of survey research. Whether your previous experience with surveys has been favorable or otherwise will certainly color your view of survey research. Unfortunately, examples of poorly constructed surveys are plentiful, leading many to believe that survey research is simplistic, relatively easy to conduct, and perhaps somewhat limited in its utility. However, good survey research requires considerable thought and planning. To the extent that the principles of good design outlined in this chapter are followed, surveys can provide a valuable source of data for use in a variety of situations, including program planning, decision making, and theory building.
