3.3.2 Define the scope of the survey
The areas covered by the Basic Law (Draft) are very extensive. Some of these areas are highly controversial but some are less so or are even not controversial at all. However, it is still possible to explore or quantify opinions from other angles. Then how should the scope of the survey be defined? There is no common view but it has been suggested that: (1) the survey should be confined to the issues on the political structure; (2) the survey should be confined to the most controversial issues relating to the political structure, such as the alternatives for the selection of the Chief Executive and the formation of the legislature; (3) in addition to the issues on the political structure, the survey should also cover some controversial issues such as that on the relationship between the Central Authorities and the HKSAR; and (4) the survey should cover all issues relating to the Basic Law (Draft).
3.3.3 Design the questionnaire After the objective is established and the scope is defined, it is necessary to translate the relevant contents and controversies and the matters to be explored into a series of questions with several fixed answers provided. The simplest answers are: yes, no, and no comment. Another way is to provide several alternatives for the respondents to choose from. However, if the alternatives are interrelated, it is necessary to simplify them or screen them or rewrite them so that the respondents will easily understand the questions and the meaning of the various answers. This process involves not only technical problems but also the designer's political awareness in respect of these questions because the alternatives presented may be biased by this factor.
3.3.4 Decide on the techniques
( 1 ) Sample size -- The sample size has bearing on the reliability and accuracy of the results. The larger the sample, the smaller the error. However, when the sample reaches a certain size, the advantages brought about by additional sample units will diminish. Normally, the maximum effective sample size is about 6,000 units and the minimum size is about 500, depending on the degree of accuracy of the results required by the party who conducts the survey.
( 2 ) Survey method -- The usual survey methods include:
- Telephone interview: It saves time and is less
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