3Assumptions in Survey Studies
3.1 Introduction
In survey studies, lots of resources and efforts are required in collecting and analyzing the data. After all the hard work, it is desired that the inferences are correct. We wish to ensure that any difference observed in data samples is actually due to difference in their population and not merely due to chance. Similarly, in estimating some population characteristics on the basis of survey data, we wish that the estimate is reliable. All this can be achieved if we fulfill the assumptions associated with survey methodology, questionnaire, data, and analysis tools used in the study.
Testing assumptions in survey research is the necessary step as they enable us to conduct the studies. Sometimes, some of the assumptions are difficult to prove, but we ensure them by indirect approach. For instance, we assume that the participants will give honest and correct response, but we cannot check this assumption directly. However, we ensure this by proper use of wordings in the questionnaire and effective communication of instructions to the respondents.
Even if some of the assumptions cannot be directly proved, we need to justify that none of the assumptions will be violated in the study; otherwise, the study will not be of any use. In each study, it is essential to explain about delimitation and limitation. Delimitation refers to the boundary conditions in terms of population, research questions, and parameters under study. These should be ...