INSTRUCTORS: Ting Yan, NORC David Dutwin, NORC

Surveys remain one of the most powerful tools for understanding what people know, do, and believe—but designing a survey that produces valid and reliable data is far from simple. Researchers face critical decisions at every stage: Which sampling approach ensures representativeness? How do you craft questions that minimize bias? What strategies maximize response rates and data quality?

This course provides a comprehensive overview of the survey design process, blending literature with practical, real-world examples. Participants will learn best practices grounded in methodological rigor, including:

-Selecting a scientific probability-based sample
-Designing and testing effective questionnaires
-Developing outreach and data collection protocols to boost participation
-Applying appropriate post-survey processing and adjustments for accuracy

Whether you’re new to surveys or seeking a refresher, this session equips you with actionable strategies to design surveys that deliver trustworthy insights. By the end, you’ll have a clear roadmap for making informed design decisions that elevate the quality and impact of your research.