Suchergebnisse

Information gathering underwent a dramatic transformation in the 1930s with the rise of survey research. Now, a growing number of critics are arguing that survey research's time has passed and it should and will be replaced by a combination of data mining from the Internet and the use of various administrative records. The promise and reliability of the new techniques are assessed, and although they show promise, they are not at present scientifically superior to survey research for most uses. Adapted from the source document.

"A survey of data-collection and non-response procedures used on surveys conducted as part of the International Social Survey Program (ISSP) reveals considerable variation across countries. Of several standard techniques to increase response rates only call-backs were in general use. Leaving letters, books, etc. and interviewers bonuses were utilized in only a bare majority of surveys and an introductory telephone call, the use of converters, and respondent incentives were not used in most surveys. In part, differences in procedures occurred because countries disagreed about their effectiveness. In other cases, techniques were not used simply because countries were not used to these methods." (author's abstract)

Examines findings from the World Assoc for Public Opinion Research's series of international studies (1983, N = 43 countries; 1992, N = 55 countries; 1996, N = 78 countries; & 2002 N = 66 countries) regarding the polling situation in individual countries & general figures on polling restrictions & other survey-related issues. Discussion centers on the ability to conduct surveys in countries, polling restrictions during election campaigns, & survey collection & reporting quality. While not surprisingly, polls are prohibited or severely restricted in nondemocratic regimes, many democracies restrict polls during pre-election periods & in other ways with politicians & journalists trying to dictate the public opinion agenda. That polls can promote democracy is noted, & four ways that survey researchers can promote freedom of public opinion polls are offered. 2 Tables, 30 References. J. Zendejas

Examines probability-based Internet surveys. Several systematic distinctions emerge from comparison of the GSS & a soundly conducted Internet survey. The Internet technique produces a higher level of DKs, a stronger propensity to choose extreme responses, some evidence of class bias, & differing degrees of comprehension vis-a-vis certain items. 3 Tables, 1 Appendix, 44 References. K. Coddon

Explores the attitudes & perceptions of the US public during the Cuban missile crisis, how these were affected by the crisis, & retrospective opinions on the crisis years after the events of Oct 1962. Data drawn primarily from Gallup polls & two surveys conducted by the National Opinion Research Center before, during, & immediately after the crisis reveal public attitudes on US-Soviet relations & US policies toward Cuba, as well as job approval ratings of President John F. Kennedy & psychological reactions to the crisis & the potential threat of nuclear war. Subsequent polls conducted in the 1970s & 1980s demonstrate the salience of these events in public memory & the mixed feelings on their long-term positive vs negative impacts. Results reveal that, both psychologically & politically, US citizens were resilient during this crisis, absorbing their initial shock, supporting their leaders, & carrying on with their daily lives; similarities are seen in public reactions to the terrorist attacks of September 11 (2001) & their aftermath. 1 Appendix, 27 References. K. Hyatt Stewart