Abstract Information: Welcome to the Survey Design Studio, where we create ONLY GREAT SURVEYS. This workshop is a deep dive into the artistic and creative world of outstanding survey design for program evaluation. Explore the art of survey design by composing evaluation purpose statements, crafting key evaluation questions, immersing yourself in the rich palette of question types, and sculpting surveys that capture the essence of program evaluations with flair and finesse. We’ll use logic and intuition to create surveys that resonate deeply with our audiences, illustrate creative approaches for elevating our survey artistic ability, and discuss considerations for special contexts. Prepare to unleash your survey design creativity as you dive into hands-on activities, transforming theoretical concepts into magnificent works of survey art. You’ll engage in collaborative critique sessions, where you'll refine your craft alongside fellow survey artists. Step into a vibrant world where we’ll transform surveys into masterpieces that unlock quality data for decision making. Get ready to unleash your survey creativity!
Relevance Statement: Survey design plays a pivotal role in the field of evaluation, serving as the foundation upon which accurate and reliable data collection rests. At its core, survey design enables evaluators to systematically gather information, measure outcomes, and assess the effectiveness of programs or interventions. Its relevance lies in its ability to inform decision-making processes, drive improvements, and ultimately contribute to better outcomes in diverse settings. Yet, all these outcomes hinge upon well-designed surveys in which people actually respond. Well-designed surveys begin with a carefully considered evaluation purpose statement (Russ-Eft, D., & Preskill, H. (2009). Evaluation in organizations: A systematic approach to enhancing learning, performance, and change. Basic Books.) and evaluation questions. The Survey Design Studio workshop begins with establishing this critical purpose foundation with case examples and small group practice. By offering practical guidance on topics such as purpose statement development, evaluation question formulation, survey question construction, and survey administration, the workshop equips participants with the knowledge and tools needed to design surveys that meet rigorous standards of quality. Next, The Survey Design Studio workshop represents a valuable contribution to the field of evaluation by addressing key challenges and current trends in evaluation. We will explore nuances of survey design and administration in diverse cultural contexts, and special considerations on the use of generative artificial intelligence (AI). The workshop’s focus on practical application ensures that participants are equipped to translate theoretical knowledge into actionable strategies, thereby enhancing the relevance and impact of evaluation efforts in diverse contexts. The Survey Design Studio represents a timely and relevant opportunity to deepen understanding, build capacity, and promote excellence in survey design within the evaluation community. By equipping evaluators with the skills, knowledge, and confidence needed to design surveys that people will respond to while also meet rigorous standards of quality, the workshop contributes to advancing the field's capacity to generate credible evidence and drive positive change.
