ABSTRACT
This chapter introduces the reader of the salient issues involved in developing and using simple questionnaires in test and evaluation. In the time- and dollar-sensitive environment of test and evaluation, a significant expenditure on questionnaire development typically cannot be justified. The most common pitfall associated with questionnaires is to use them in situations where they are simply not needed to answer the test issues at hand. Because questionnaires are frequently perceived as an easy way to collect data, they are often casually prepared and used to evaluate a system, procedure, or interface. Increasing the number of response alternatives, however, tends to increase the questionnaire administration time. The questionnaire cover sheet is a key ingredient in obtaining the respondents’ cooperation by informing them about the purpose of the questionnaire and the procedures for completing it. A good rule of thumb is to administer the questionnaire only as often as is absolutely necessary.
