1
What is a survey study?
A survey study collects original data by asking questions to a defined group. You design a questionnaire, distribute it, analyse responses, and write up findings. Very popular in medical education research.
Why surveys work for early yearsNo clinical access, patient records, or supervisor needed. A Year 1 student can design and run a study about medical student experience and publish the results.
Do I need ethical approval?⌄
It depends. Studies involving only medical students typically need only institutional ethics review which is faster. Contact your medical school ethics committee early.
How many responses do I need?⌄
For descriptive studies aim for 50 to 100 responses. If comparing groups aim for 30 or more per group. For most student surveys 80 to 150 responses is adequate for publication.
2
Step by step guide
1
Choose your research question
Be specific. What factors influence medical students' research engagement is better than what do students think about research.
2
Review existing literature
Check what has been studied. Your survey should fill a gap. Search PubMed for similar surveys.
3
Design your questionnaire
Keep it under 10 minutes. Use validated scales where possible. Pilot with 5 to 10 people before distributing. Use Google Forms.
4
Obtain ethical approval
Apply to your institution's ethics committee before distributing. Usually takes 2 to 4 weeks for student surveys.
5
Distribute and collect
Use multiple channels: email lists, social media, university groups. Set a clear closing date.
6
Analyse and write up
Use descriptive statistics. Follow the CROSS checklist. Submit to a medical education journal.
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Video walkthrough coming soon
A complete video guide for visual and auditory learners.
Coming soon3
Checklist
Click each item to mark complete.
Research question clearly defined
Literature reviewed to confirm gap
Questionnaire piloted with 5 to 10 people
Ethics approval obtained before distribution
Participant information sheet prepared
Data storage GDPR compliant
Response rate recorded
CROSS checklist completed
Target journal identified
Missing data strategy defined
Test your understanding
5 questions on the key concepts.
1. Why are surveys good for pre-clinical students?
2. What is a Likert scale?
3. Minimum responses for a basic descriptive survey?
4. Which reporting checklist for surveys?
5. What should you do before distributing the questionnaire?