Instrument Design

Instrument Design

CSR specializes in providing expert reviews of questionnaires. Our survey methodologists are strong in the theoretic and practical issues related to the design and implementation of data collection instruments, with special emphasis on evaluating the cognitive aspects of survey response to minimize measurement error.

Cognitive interviewing in particular is recommended as part of an overall method for testing and evaluating questionnaires, especially ones which have not been previously piloted, validated, or whose measures have been adapted for a different target population or context. Cognitive interviewing employs a semi-structured interviewing protocol to gather information and feedback from a sample like that of the target population of the main survey. The protocol can range from standard probes utilized in question appraisal system models to assess comprehension and other problems to more targeted items that address potential issues native to the specific study, implementation method, or other ancillary study materials.

We have been fortunate to have seen many survey instruments over the years and are pleased to offer this service, both as part of a data collection effort we might execute and as stand-alone support for outside research projects.

Please contact us to inquire about questionnaire reviews and instrument design.

Center for Survey Research
Morrison Hall 120
1165 E Third Street
Bloomington, IN 47405
(812) 856-0779 or (800) 258-7691
csr@indiana.edu
Free Weekly Consulting Hours:

Excludes first and last weeks of classes, holiday breaks and exam weeks. If the listed times are not convenient, please schedule an appointment using our Contact Us form.

Tuesdays 10AM-12PM (by appointment only)
Social Science Research Commons
Woodburn Hall 200 or by Zoom
Wednesdays 12PM-1:30PM (by appointment only)
Scholars' Commons
Herman B. Wells Library
East Tower E157N or by Zoom
 Book an appointment online