Designing the Questionnaire

Principles of Good Questionnaire Design

The questionnaire is the backbone of survey research. A well-designed questionnaire yields reliable and valid data, while a poorly designed one produces misleading results.

Types of Questions

1. Closed-Ended Questions

Respondents choose from predetermined options:

• Yes/No questions: Simple binary choice
• Multiple choice: Select one from several options
• Likert scale: Rate agreement on a scale (e.g., 1-5)
• Rating scale: Rate on a numerical scale
• Ranking: Arrange items in order of preference

2. Open-Ended Questions

Respondents answer in their own words. Useful for exploratory research but harder to analyze statistically.

Question Wording Guidelines

1. Be clear and simple: Avoid jargon and complex sentences
2. Avoid double-barreled questions: Ask about one thing at a time
3. Avoid leading questions: Don't suggest the "correct" answer
4. Avoid loaded questions: Don't use emotionally charged words
5. Be specific: Vague questions produce vague answers
6. Avoid negatives: "Do you not disagree…" is confusing

The Likert Scale

The most common scale in survey research. Typically uses 5 points:

Questionnaire Structure

1. Introduction: Explain the purpose, confidentiality, and instructions
2. Demographic section: Age, gender, education, etc.
3. Main sections: Organized by topic/dimension (each dimension = one axis)
4. Closing: Thank the respondent and provide contact info

Dimensions and Axes

A well-structured questionnaire groups questions into dimensions (محاور). Each dimension measures a specific aspect of the research topic. For example:

• Dimension 1: Job Satisfaction (items 1-8)
• Dimension 2: Work Environment (items 9-15)
• Dimension 3: Professional Development (items 16-22)

Tip: Always pilot test your questionnaire with 10-30 people before full deployment. This helps identify confusing questions and estimate completion time.