MEASUREMENT ERRORS IN QUESTIONNAIRES: AN ANALYSIS OF QUESTION FORMAT-SPECIFIC ERRORS
MEASUREMENT ERRORS IN QUESTIONNAIRES: AN ANALYSIS OF QUESTION FORMAT-SPECIFIC ERRORS

Summary/Abstract: This paper examines the measurement errors in questionnaires, focusing on question format- specific errors that can affect validity. Through a comprehensive literature review, 13 types of errors have been identified, focusing in particular on multiple-choice and free-answer questions. The results shows that multiple-choice questions, among others, are subject to “test wiseness” and “irrelevant difficulty”, while free-answer questions result in a higher rate of non-response. It covers different types of errors, including dead-end questions, double-barrelled questions and loaded questions. The investigation also looks into the strategic use of certain question types to elicit more valid responses. This research shows how question- related errors affect questionnaire trustworthiness. It provides a basis for improving questionnaire design, valuable especially for non-expert practitioners. This paper aims to enhance the validity and reliability of information gathered via this widely used tool by highlighting the importance of careful questionnaire design.

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