Questionnaire Design

The survey will avoid pitfalls of questions like “double negative question”, “leading questions”, “double barreled”, “jargon”, etc. By using simple and straightforward language, the research can generate more accurate answers (Asher 2007:59-61). The answer categories should also be straight forward, avoid multiple categories that can be selected, avoid jargons and not overlap answer choices (Asher 2007:61).
The order in which the questions are asked may also present some problems (Asher 2007:69). This questionnaire will avoid listing questions in such a manner that conditions the answer to the following question. Once again, pre testing the questionnaire can illuminate any obvious conditioning questions and help the survey be more accurate. Also, by having an interviewer conduct the interview over a telephone, the problems associated with question order, context and visual effects can be further decreased (Asher 2007:73). Being aware of “context” in which the question is asked is also equally important (Asher 2007:74). The framework in which the questions appear is very important. Also, to keep in mind is the broader social context such as political and socio-economic conditions as well as personal issues (Asher 2007:74). In relation to this present research, down labor market and declining job availability, more competition to a position, difficulty in retaining a job, avoiding being fired are likely to affect older workers more. This situation provides this research a very unique qausi-experiment type benefit. In the current labor market, older individuals might find that they have to compete aggressively with younger workers even more. This might reduce their chances of getting hired or prolong their job search.