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POSTAL survey

A method of data collection, not frequently used. It represents a questionnaire for self-completion dispatched by post.

The greatest advantage of postal surveys, where questionnaires are sent by post, is that they can be carried out without much field force. They are conducted without interviewers.
Another advantage of postal surveys is that respondents do not perceive themselves to be in a survey situation, and thus are more open about sharing personal information.
A great disadvantage is that there is no control. There is no way of knowing, for instance, whether it really was the selected respondent who filled out the questionnaire, or one or several other people. A supervision of postal surveys is hardly possible.

Respondents have to be able to read or write to respond.