TABLE OF CONTENTS Probably the most common form of data collection method is the questionnaire (Alreck and Settle, 1995). Ranging from short reaction forms to detailed follow-up tools, questionnaires can be used to obtain subjective information about participants, as well as to objectively document measurable business results for an ROI analysis. With this versatility and popularity, the questionnaire is the preferred method for capturing Levels 1, 2, 3, and 4 data in some organizations.
Surveys represent a specific type of questionnaire with several applications for measuring training success. Surveys are used in situations where attitudes, beliefs, and opinions are captured only; whereas, a questionnaire has much more flexibility and captures data ranging from attitude to specific improvement statistics. The principles of survey construction and design are similar to questionnaire design. The development of both types of instruments is covered in this section.
In addition to the types of data sought, the types of questions distinguish surveys from questionnaires. Surveys can have yes or no responses when an absolute agreement or disagreement is required, or a range of responses may be used from strongly disagree to strongly agree. A five-point scale is very common.
A questionnaire may contain any or all of these types of questions:
Open-ended question: has an unlimited answer. The question is followed by an ample blank space for the response.
Checklist: provides a list of items where a participant is asked to check those that apply in the situation.
Two-way question:
