Wanna Take a Survey? Exploring Tools to Increase Undergraduate Student Response Rates to Real-Time Experience Surveys

Our study explores the student perspective on approaches to real-time data collection surveys intended to be completed during classes. Real-time data collection means in the moment, while learning is happening. In focus group sessions with undergraduate students, we used semistructured questions to gather information about a series of proposed survey tools including social media (e.g., Facebook and Twitter), standard survey software (e.g., SurveyMonkey), and classroom technologies (e.g., such as clickers or tablet computers and interactive software). Focus groups were recorded, transcribed verbatim and coded to identify patterns in preferences and underlying reasons for these preferences with regard to structuring the survey to increase the likelihood of completion of the survey by participants. The primary outcome of this study was that students suggested pen/pencil and paper as a top choice over electronic methods, even though this approach was not among our suggested options. They preferred pen/pencil and paper because the format offers space for free expression and ease of access. They also suggested the impetus to take the survey is greater with pen/pencil and paper. We believe our study makes an important contribution to educational research methods literature by offering research-based design considerations for increasing response rates in real-time data collection.