differentiate survey from interview?
Surveys and interviews are both commonly used research methods to collect data from individuals. However, there are several key differences between the two:
1. Structure: Surveys are typically structured questionnaires with a predefined set of questions that are administered to respondents in a written or digital format. Interviews, on the other hand, are more flexible and conversational, allowing for open-ended questions and follow-up probing.
2. Control: Surveys offer a higher level of control as researchers can ensure that all participants receive the same questions and response options. Interviews, particularly semi-structured or unstructured interviews, provide more flexibility for the interviewer to adapt the questions and probe further based on the respondent's answers.
3. Sample Size: Surveys generally have larger sample sizes as they can be distributed to a large number of participants simultaneously. Interviews often involve smaller samples since they require direct interaction with each participant, which limits the number that can be conducted within a given timeframe.
4. Depth of Information: Surveys provide quantitative data, with responses often being categorized and measured on a scale or through multiple-choice options. Interviews tend to gather more qualitative data, allowing participants to provide in-depth responses that capture their thoughts, feelings, and experiences.
5. Contextual Understanding: Interviews offer the opportunity to gain a deeper understanding of participants' perspectives, as the interviewer can explore the context behind their answers. Surveys lack this contextual understanding, as they are often limited to the options provided and don't allow for clarification or elaboration.
Both surveys and interviews have their own strengths and weaknesses, and researchers often choose between them based on the research objectives, available resources, and the level of detail required for the study.