Hi,
I want to run a survey for scientific research purpose and was wondering what are the minimum identification required from participants?
If the identification information are too specific not much people would want to participate in the survey.
However if its anonymous or too few identifation information given the survey credibility might be questioned.
Hope someone with experience in surveys for scientific research purposes could give me some insights about this. Thanks
Well, it is unethical in Research to disclose identity of the participants without their consent! Normally, when you tell them that their identity will be disclosed, they do not give you the correct or complete information!!
Dear Sanna Nasr ,
This is an interesting question. However, I think you are approaching the issue from the wrong angle. It is better to identify a research gap and a research question which will require a survey of a particular population and the collection of certain data to answer this question or questions. Any demographic data you collect beyond this should be minimal.
IDENTIFICATION INFORMATION here may mean "demographic" information without identifying respondents by name. The type and amount of demographic information should be limited to what information you seek, for what purpose, and how useful and relevant such information is to answering the research question. Information, such as gender, age, education, location, etc. are normally solicited in the first section of the survey. However, information about race and religion may be avoided due to sensitivity and privacy of the information. The researcher has to balance between respect for privacy and the needs for information. Income level sometimes are avoided as part of demographic information due to the possible tendency of over-stating earning.
Dear Sanna Nasr The data depends on the type of study. To inform about the survey that will be applied as well as the objectives is the prior informed consent, so each participant already knows what the study is about and indirectly accepts the questions that will be asked. As Paul Louangrath says demographics are important and related to goals. If they are not qualitative studies, the names are not relevant unless they are part of the dynasty or pedigree analysis. I recommend including 8-10 demographic questions.
Regards!
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