To Know from Fowler (2002)• Increasing Question Reliabilities

– Answer Reliability• Adequate wordings• Consistent meanings

– Question Reliability• Single questions• Options• Special wordings

• Increasing Question Validities– Question Validity

• Correct Measurement Levels• Open vs. Closed questions• Tips for sensitive questions

– Answer Validity: Tips for Subjective questions

• Structured– Fill-in the blank– Rating– Likert Scale– Check all that apply

• Unstructured– Open ended question

Some Question Types

• Dichotomous Questions

• Nominal Questions

• Ordinal Questions

• Semantic Differential

• Interval/Ratio Questions (Likert)

• Filter or Contingency Questions

Typical Problems with Questions• Double-barreled• Vague• Leading• Premature assumptions/bias• Insufficient alternatives • Forced-choice/s• Answer options don’t fit• Negative wording• Double negatives

• I oppose electronic prescribing and electronic medical records for patients. SA A N D SD

• Which of these five statements best describes your chairman?– Innovative but lacking in leadership qualities– About the same on innovation and leadership

qualities– Stronger on leadership than innovation– A born leader– A real innovator

• How do you feel about healthcare in the United States?

How supportive is your spouse about your efforts to quit smoking?

Very Supportive Somewhat Not at all

supportive supportive supportive

Question Types

• Provide 3 original examples of each type:a. Dichotomous

b. Nominal

c. Ordinal

d. Semantic Differential

e. Interval/Ratio Questions (Likert)

f. Filter or Contingency