American Institute of Certified Planners (AICP) Practice Exam

What is a notable advantage of using in-person surveys?

1. They are inexpensive and quick to execute.

2. They conduce to high levels of bias.

3. They provide comprehensive and direct feedback.

4. They can efficiently reach a wide audience.

The correct answer is: They provide comprehensive and direct feedback.

Using in-person surveys offers the notable advantage of providing comprehensive and direct feedback. When engaged directly with respondents, planners can clarify questions, probe deeper into responses, and observe non-verbal cues, all of which contribute to a richer understanding of the participants' views and needs. This interaction can lead to more nuanced insights that may not be captured through other survey methods, such as online surveys or phone interviews. Additionally, the face-to-face nature of in-person surveys often fosters a better rapport with respondents, making them more comfortable to share their thoughts and feelings candidly. This can be particularly important when gathering opinions on sensitive topics, as respondents may feel more secure discussing their views in person than through anonymous forms. In contrast, other methods of surveying, like online approaches, may not allow for real-time clarification or follow-up, potentially leading to misunderstandings or incomplete responses. The engaging aspect of in-person interaction can therefore significantly enhance the quality of the data collected.