Summary
Contents
The Internet has emerged as a popular medium for collecting data because of its ability to access millions of users, facilitate an array of research designs, and efficiently deliver and compile questionnaires. Often forgotten amidst this growing enthusiasm are the medium's numerous drawbacks, from limited coverage to technical variance, that threaten to undermine the quality of the information assembled. Designed for researchers and students alike, the volume describes how to perform each stage of the data collection process on the Internet, including sampling, instrument design, and administration. Through the use of non-technical prose and illustrations, it details the options available, describes potential dangers in choosing them, and provides guidelines for sidestepping them. In doing so, though, it does not simply reiterate the practices of traditional communication modes, but approaches the Internet as a unique medium that necessitates its own conventions.
Using the Internet as a Medium for Research
Using the Internet as a Medium for Research
The Internet has emerged as a popular medium for collecting data. It provides access to millions of potential research participants. It permits an array of instrument designs, facilitating alternative question formats, various sequencing options, and audiovisual stimuli. In many instances, it can even transmit and receive information more quickly and inexpensively than conventional communication modes, such as telephony and postal mail. As a result, an increasing number of researchers are relying on the Internet to facilitate studies of human attitudes, preferences, and behavior.
Oftsen forgotten amidst this growing enthusiasm are the numerous drawbacks of collecting data online. Many people do not have access to the Internet or cannot be located by it. The variety of ways that users can ...
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