ABSTRACT
Researchers use two approaches when gathering data in descriptive quantitative research studies; they may collect data by observing and counting overt acts of behavior, or they may use a questionnaire to generate responses to specific questions, including questions about attitudes, opinions, motivations, knowledge, demographics and many more categories of data. Questionnaires are the most popular way to gather primary data—it has been estimated that questionnaires are used in 85 percent or more of all quantitative research projects. They are particularly appropriate when the research problem calls for a descriptive design. This chapter discusses the process of descriptive research design, and the steps involved in questionnaire preparation, including the nature, limitations and wide variety of ways to write survey questions.
