Questionnaire vs. Interview: What's the Difference?
Edited by Huma Saeed || By Sumera Saeed || Updated on November 11, 2023
A questionnaire is a set of written questions for obtaining information, while an interview involves a verbal exchange to gather data.
Key Differences
A questionnaire refers to a structured set of written or printed questions, typically multiple-choice or open-ended, designed to gather specific information from respondents. On the other hand, an interview involves a live interaction, usually verbal, between the interviewer and the interviewee with the purpose of gathering in-depth data on a topic.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Questionnaires are often used when researchers or organizations need to gather data from a large number of respondents. The questions are standardized, meaning every respondent answers the same set of questions. Interviews, however, offer more flexibility. Interviewers can adapt or change their questions based on the responses they get, diving deeper into specific areas of interest.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
In a questionnaire, the respondents' understanding of the questions can vary, and there is no immediate way to clarify any misunderstandings. With interviews, the interviewer can provide clarifications, probe deeper, or ask follow-up questions to get richer, more detailed answers.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
The mode of administration is another differentiating factor. Questionnaires can be administered electronically, mailed, or handed out in person. Interviews are generally conducted face-to-face, though they can also be done over the phone or through video conferencing. Both questionnaires and interviews have their own advantages and drawbacks, and the choice between them often depends on the research objectives.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Comparison Chart
ADVERTISEMENT
Flexibility
Standardized questions
Questions can be adapted or changed on-the-fly
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Administration
Can be electronic, mailed, or in person
Usually face-to-face, but also phone or video
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Clarification Possibility
Limited; misunderstandings might not be immediately addressed
Immediate clarification is possible
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Questionnaire and Interview Definitions
Questionnaire
A questionnaire is a written or printed set of questions designed to gather information.
The health department sent out a questionnaire to assess the community's nutritional habits.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Interview
An interview is a formal meeting between an interviewer and interviewee for discussion.
The reporter set up an interview with the celebrity to discuss his latest movie.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Questionnaire
A questionnaire is a tool used in research to collect data from multiple respondents.
The students were asked to fill out a questionnaire about their study habits.
Huma Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Interview
An interview is a conversation where questions are asked to obtain information.
She was nervous about her upcoming job interview at the tech company.
Huma Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Questionnaire
A questionnaire is a structured document that solicits responses to gain insights.
Companies often use a customer satisfaction questionnaire to improve their services.
Harlon Moss
Nov 01, 2023
Interview
An interview is a method of qualitative research where insights are gathered through dialogue.
The anthropologist conducted interviews with villagers to understand their customs.
Sara Rehman
Nov 01, 2023
ADVERTISEMENT
Questionnaire
A questionnaire is an instrument for surveying opinions, behaviors, or facts.
The city council used a questionnaire to gauge public opinion on the new park project.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Interview
An interview is a structured exchange to gain in-depth information on a specific topic.
The author included several interviews in her book to give readers a personal perspective.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Questionnaire
A questionnaire is a method for obtaining standardized data from a specific group.
The therapist provided a questionnaire to understand the patient's feelings and concerns.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 01, 2023
Interview
An interview is a face-to-face interaction used in recruitment to assess a candidate's suitability.
After three rounds of interviews, he was selected for the managerial position.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 01, 2023
Questionnaire
A form containing a set of questions, especially one addressed to a statistically significant number of subjects as a way of gathering information for a survey.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
Interview
A formal meeting in person, especially one arranged for the assessment of the qualifications of an applicant.
Sumera Saeed
Oct 31, 2023
FAQs
What is an interview?
A conversation where questions are asked to obtain information.
Huma Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
How are interviews typically conducted?
Usually face-to-face, but can also be over the phone or via video conferencing.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
What is a questionnaire?
A written or printed set of questions designed to gather information.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
How is a questionnaire administered?
It can be electronic, mailed, or handed out in person.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Can interviewers clarify doubts in real-time?
Yes, interviewers can provide immediate clarification.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
What is the main advantage of an interview?
It offers depth, flexibility, and the possibility of immediate clarification.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
What is the main advantage of a questionnaire?
It can efficiently gather data from a large number of respondents.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
Can interview questions change during the session?
Yes, interviewers can adapt based on the interviewee's responses.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
How do questionnaires handle misunderstandings?
They may have limited ways to address misunderstandings as they're often non-interactive.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Is an interview a qualitative or quantitative tool?
Typically qualitative, but can have quantitative elements.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
How are questionnaire results typically analyzed?
Using statistical methods or software.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Are questionnaires always standardized?
Typically, yes. They have a set list of questions for consistency among respondents.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Which is better for large samples, questionnaire or interview?
Questionnaires are typically more efficient for large samples.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Can questionnaires be anonymous?
Yes, respondents can often complete questionnaires without revealing their identity.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Do interviews always have a single interviewer?
Not always; there can be panel interviews with multiple interviewers.
Sara Rehman
Nov 10, 2023
Is a questionnaire a qualitative or quantitative tool?
It can be both, but it's often used for quantitative data collection.
Sumera Saeed
Nov 10, 2023
Which is more time-consuming, a questionnaire or an interview?
Interviews generally require more time due to their interactive nature.
Aimie Carlson
Nov 10, 2023
Which provides more in-depth data, questionnaire or interview?
Interviews generally provide richer, more detailed information.
Harlon Moss
Nov 10, 2023
How are interview results typically analyzed?
Through qualitative analysis methods like coding and thematic analysis.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
Can both questionnaires and interviews be used in the same study?
Yes, many studies use a mixed-methods approach for a comprehensive view.
Janet White
Nov 10, 2023
About Author
Written by
Sumera SaeedSumera is an experienced content writer and editor with a niche in comparative analysis. At Diffeence Wiki, she crafts clear and unbiased comparisons to guide readers in making informed decisions. With a dedication to thorough research and quality, Sumera's work stands out in the digital realm. Off the clock, she enjoys reading and exploring diverse cultures.
Edited by
Huma SaeedHuma is a renowned researcher acclaimed for her innovative work in Difference Wiki. Her dedication has led to key breakthroughs, establishing her prominence in academia. Her contributions continually inspire and guide her field.
