American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

A planning director developing a town-wide survey on growth preservation plans to interview 1% of the population. How effective will her survey be?

1. Good

2. Moderate

3. Poor

4. Very poor

The correct answer is: Good

Choosing to interview 1% of the population for a town-wide survey on growth preservation can be considered effective depending on the context of the population size and the diversity of the participants. A 1% sample can provide a reasonable representation of public opinion, especially in smaller towns or municipalities where the total population is manageable. In a planning context, a well-structured survey that reaches a representative cross-section of the community can yield valuable insights into the preferences and priorities regarding growth and preservation issues. If the survey is designed thoughtfully, with careful attention to sampling methods to ensure inclusivity across demographics, the results can reflect the community’s views adequately. Effectiveness also hinges on the survey's design, the questions posed, and the outreach methods used to engage respondents. A properly conducted survey can lead to informed planning decisions and community engagement, making the effort worthwhile. This context highlights why the interpretation of the effectiveness of the survey is leaned towards being "good" rather than moderate or poor.