Face-to-face surveys are a method of quantitative research in which an interviewer conducts a survey directly in the presence of the respondent.
This method typically involves the use of structured questionnaires, ensuring the standardization of the data collection process.
Such face-to-face surveys can be conducted manually, where the interviewer fills out the questionnaire on paper during the conversation with the respondent, or using an online platform, which enhances the efficiency of data collection and processing.
This method provides direct interaction between the researcher and the respondent, contributing to a deeper understanding and clarification of responses.
The advantages of face-to-face surveys include:
- In-Depth Understanding:
Personal interaction can lead to a deeper understanding of respondents' answers. The interviewer can better control the situation, clarify responses, and interact with respondents to gather additional information.
- Direct Observation:
The use of structured questionnaires ensures the standardization of questions and answers, making the data more comparable and analyzable.
- Reach Different Population Groups:
Face-to-face surveys can be adapted for various target audiences, including those who may have limited access to technology or are accustomed to more traditional methods of data collection.
- Improved Representativeness:
If there is a stratified selection of respondents, face-to-face surveys can provide better representativeness of the sample.
However, it's important to note that face-to-face surveys may have some limitations, such as higher costs compared to other data collection methods, potential response biases due to social influence from the interviewer, and challenges in organizing and coordinating surveys over large territories.