Reasearch Training

Conducting surveys that yield accurate data involves a mix of both science and art. From a
scientific perspective, there are numerous sources of survey error that must be controlled in
order to render the findings meaningful. On the artistic side, countless small nuances make
big differences in the project’s level of success. Valid and reliable surveys, therefore, need a
researcher who possesses the proper combination of training and experience.

Organizations interested in acquiring the necessary skills to confidently conduct their own
research in-house are encouraged to participate in survey research training through the Accurus
Institute. Full-day and half-day courses are offered in the disciplines of sampling techniques,
data collection methods, questionnaire development, web-based surveys, and survey
project management. All courses are taught by Douglas Cox who has more than twenty years of
direct, hands-on experience leading and conducting a broad spectrum of survey types.

Each course addresses the theory, logic and practical applications of the material. Participants
are exposed to the “nuts and bolts” of each topic and are fully engaged in the learning process.
At the conclusion of the course, the student comes away with the tools required to design a
sound survey research project.

The Accurus Institute is a mobile survey research learning center that comes to you. Instruction is tailored to your needs and to the participants you designate. Courses are generally conducted in small groups to maximize the learning experience.

While each course can be presented individually, much of the theory and application of the various components of survey research overlap and interrelate with one another. For organizations that have limited experience with the survey research process, we recommend all five courses presented as a three-day package so as to gain the most from the way each component relates to the others.