1) Discuss the questionnaire approach to social science research. The advantages and disadvantages of mail surveys. What methods can be used to improve response rates of mail surveys. Discuss the issues of wording, question format, and open vs. closed ended questions. How are interviews different from surveys? What are advantages and disadvantages of interviews? Of surveys or interviews, which would you recommend for a study concerning sexual victimization? Why would you recommend this approach?
2) Discuss the experimental design. What are the major components of the classical experimental design? Why is randomization such a major issue? Discuss other variations of the classical design. What is meant by quasi-experimental design? What are the major advantages and disadvantages of using an experimental design in criminal justice research? Finally, you have been hired to explore if a new program for women who are mothers being released from prison is effective in terms of reducing recidivism and increasing employment. What experimental or quasi-experimental design would you use and why?
3) A new youth facility has a problem of high turnover (i.e., over thirty percent) of line staff over the past two years. You have been hired to conduct a research project to explain the high turnover rate and provide possible solutions to the problem. In addition, administrators are concerned with the impact of the high rate of turnover on the confined youths and the remaining staff. The administrators at the facility have agreed to provide you with near total access to institutional records and staff. Develop two separate research designs and describe the selected designs. Include in your answer the strengths and weaknesses of each design. Finally, of the two designs you selected, which is the best and why?
