What describes the systematic collection of information from a sample, typically using a questionnaire or structured interview?

• A. Field experiments
• B. Case studies
• C. Ethnography
• D. Social surveys

Answer: (D)

The main idea here is gathering information from a subset of people in a consistent, planned way using a questionnaire or structured interview. This approach, a social survey, is designed to produce comparable data from many respondents so findings can be generalized to a larger population. It relies on sampling methods to choose participants and uses standardized questions to enable easy analysis and identification of patterns or trends. It differs from field experiments, which involve manipulating variables in real-world settings; from case studies, which look in depth at a few cases; and from ethnography, which involves long-term, immersive observation of cultures or groups. Social surveys are efficient for collecting broad, quantifiable data on attitudes, opinions, and behaviors, though they can face issues like response bias or social desirability effects.