Introduction to Survey Methodology

June 9-13, 2025, 9:00am-12:00pm EDT

Introduction to Survey Methodology covers the basic principles of survey design and methods and introduces the necessary components of a good quality survey.   The course employs the Total Survey Error framework to discuss sampling frames and designs, modes of data collection and their effects on survey errors, the cognitive processes involved in answering survey questions and their impact on questionnaire design, pretesting methods and post-data collection processing.  The goal of the course is to give an introduction to the skills and resources needed to design and conduct a survey.

Emilia Peytcheva is a research survey methodologist with RTI International.  She holds a PhD. in survey methodology from the University of Michigan.  Peytcheva’s research expertise includes measurement error-inducing factors in cross-cultural research and the interplay among survey errors and their combined effect on total survey error.  Her interests include methods for minimizing measurement error induced by the survey questionnaire.

Andy Peytchev is a senior survey methodologist at RTI International. His research interests include study designs that minimize total survey error and is particularly interested in the study, reduction, and adjustment of nonresponse and measurement error. Dr. Peytchev’s recent work includes the evaluation of split questionnaire design, multi-frame and multi-phase study design, development of adaptive and responsive survey designs, augmentation of survey samples with external data and evaluation of their properties, improving weighting adjustments, and imputation for unit nonresponse and measurement error.

The Summer Institute in Survey Research Techniques provides rigorous and high quality graduate level training in all phases of survey research. The noncredit courses are open to all. The courses are live online via Zoom. Registration and payment are required. Course fees are based on the total number of hours assigned to each course, the hours are listed on the course description. The 2025 schedule lists additional courses. If you have any questions regarding the application process, please use the online contact form or email the Summer Institute at [email protected] .