Apr

4

New Study Supports Internet Research

April 4, 2004 | posted by Ryan | Leave a Comment

Gosling, S. D., Vazire, S., Srivastava, S., & John, O. P. (February/March 2004). Should we trust web-based studies? A comparative analysis of six preconceptions about internet questionnaires. American Psychologist, 59(2), 93 - 104.

This new study affirms the use of the internet in research. Results indicate that 1) internet samples are not maladjusted, socially isolated, or depressed; 2) that data can generalize across presentation formats; 3) that internet participants are sufficiently motivated to participate in research and provide appropriate data; 4) that internet findings do not necessarily differ from thos obtained from other methods; and 5) that internet samples are just as diverse if not more diverse demographically than data collected by other means. Results do indicate that internet data may be compromised by repeat responders, but measures can be taken to reduce repeat data, including the tracking of IP addresses and asking if responders have filled out the survey before. Findings imply that internet research is a valid method of collecting survey data and poses significant bennefits including automatic transmission of data into analysis programs, not having to imput respondant’s data into the computer, thus saving time, and the ability to recruite through various internet media (search engines, chat rooms, postings, etc.).

[Posted in Research & Technology]


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