1. Questionnaires
3. Structured and unstructured questions: advantages and disadvantages of each type

3. Types of questions There are two main types
Structured (Closed responses) – use when the response falls into easily defined categories. Rating scales are structured questions too.
Unstructured (Open responses) – use when the responses could be quite varied and you can’t decide what the responses might be.

4. Advantages of structured questions
Quick and easy to answer
Answers are easier to analyse
Possible responses makes the meaning of the question clearer

6. Disadvantages of structured questions
Requires knowledge of likely responses
Restricts possible answer (inclusion of “other” category gives no information)
Respondents with no opinion or knowledge provide an answer anyway.

7. Advantages of unstructured questions
Permits an unlimited number of answers
Allows detailed answers
Allows unanticipated answers

9. Disadvantages of unstructured questions
Coding responses is difficult and time consuming
The questionnaire takes longer to complete
Answers can be irrelevant if the question is misunderstood.