Internet Data Collection

Samuel J. Best has conducted and overseen numerous surveys both as a scholar and as Director for the Center of Survey research and Analysis at the University of Connecticut. He has written numerous academic articles and books, including an earlier volume for the QASS series, entitled Internet Data Collection (#142). Samuel J. Best is an Associate Professor of Political Science and Research Director of the Center for Survey Research and Analysis at the University of Connecticut. Brian S. Krueger is an Assistant Professor of Political Science at the University of Rhode Island.

USING THE INTERNET AS A MEDIUM FOR RESEARCH The Data Collection Process Data Collection Opportunities on the Internet Limitations of Internet Data Collection Orientation Organization PRACTICALITIES OF USING THE INTERNET A New Communication Medium Getting Connected to the Internet Online Services Suitable for Data Collection DRAWING SAMPLES ON THE INTERNET Specifying the Target Population Developing a Sample Frame Choosing a Sampling Method Determining the Size of the Sample Implementing Contacting Procedures ADMINISTERING INSTRUMENTS ON THE INTERNET Selecting a Communication Mode Controlling Access Formatting the Instrument Incorporating Stimuli Limiting Item Non-Response Providing Instruction COMPILING RESPONSES ONLINE Inducing Participation Collecting Submissions Authenticating Cases Appraising Responses Concluding Remarks REFERENCES