Creating Word Questionnaires

Overview

Today's lesson focused on creating electronic questionnaires using Microsoft Word form fields, an essential skill for your practical assessment task in information management.

Introduction to Information Management and Questionnaires

• Information management involves collecting, processing, and analyzing data.
• Questionnaires are a useful tool for gathering information not easily found in other sources.
• The focus is on designing questionnaires with closed or multiple-choice questions for easier data analysis.

Using Microsoft Word Form Fields for Questionnaires

• Microsoft Word form fields enable respondents to fill in answers directly on a computer.
• Use closed and multiple-choice questions to ensure clear, straightforward responses.
• Effective questionnaire layout should include adequate space for respondent answers and clear instructions.
• Forms should be created in a word processor (MS Word) before possibly moving online.

Steps to Create a Questionnaire in MS Word

• If the Developer tab is not visible, enable it via File > Options > Customize Ribbon > tick Developer.
• Place the cursor where the form field is needed, go to Developer tab > Controls group > Legacy Tools.
• Use text form fields for open-ended responses (e.g., Name, Age).
• Use number form fields for numeric responses (e.g., Age set as a number type).
• Use dropdown form fields for categorical choices (e.g., Gender with options like Male, Female, Other).
• Checkbox form fields can be used for multiple selections.
• Protect the document via Review > Restrict Editing > allow only “Filling in forms” to prevent edits outside form fields.
• To unlock for editing, return to Restrict Editing and stop protection.

Practical Assessment Task (PAT) Guidelines

• Create a questionnaire to collect new data or support information from other sources.
• Target at least 25 respondents across various demographics (e.g., age, gender).
• The questionnaire should first be completed in MS Word, then distributed (printed, emailed, or linked online).
• An online version can be created using tools like Google Forms or SurveyMonkey after the Word version.

Key Terms & Definitions

• Form Field — Areas in a Word document where users can enter or select data.
• Developer Tab — A menu in MS Word that provides access to advanced tools, including form fields.
• Legacy Tools — Older set of form controls in MS Word used for compatibility and simpler form creation.
• Closed Question — A question with limited possible responses, often yes/no or multiple choice.
• Restrict Editing — A feature that limits changes to specified parts of a document.

Action Items / Next Steps

• Create a questionnaire using MS Word form fields as demonstrated.
• Review and revise your questionnaire for clarity and appropriate use of form fields.
• Prepare questions or issues for Monday’s lesson on creating online questionnaires with Google Forms or SurveyMonkey.
• Be ready to discuss types of questions and any related uncertainties in the next session.