Distinguish between questionnaire and schedule.

Questionnaires and schedules are both tools used in data collection, particularly in research and surveys, but they differ in their formats, administration methods, and purposes.

A questionnaire is a written set of questions designed to gather information from respondents. It is a self-administered instrument where individuals respond to the questions in writing, either on paper or electronically. Questionnaires are standardized and can be distributed to a large number of respondents simultaneously, making them a cost-effective method for collecting data. They are versatile and can be used to gather both qualitative and quantitative information. Questionnaires are often structured with closed-ended questions (multiple-choice, yes/no) or open-ended questions, allowing respondents to provide detailed responses.

On the other hand, a schedule is a form of data collection that involves a face-to-face interaction between an interviewer and a respondent. The schedule consists of a set of predetermined questions, similar to a questionnaire, but the interviewer reads the questions to the respondent and records their responses. Schedules are particularly useful when the target population may have difficulty understanding written questions or when a more nuanced understanding of the responses is required. They allow for clarification of queries, probing for additional information, and adapting to the respondent's level of understanding.

While questionnaires offer anonymity and are suitable for large-scale surveys, schedules provide a more personal touch and enable the interviewer to establish rapport with the respondent. Schedules are especially beneficial when dealing with complex topics or when the target population includes individuals with varying literacy levels. However, schedules can be more resource-intensive due to the need for trained interviewers and the time required for face-to-face interactions.

In summary, a questionnaire is a self-administered written set of questions, allowing respondents to provide answers independently, while a schedule involves a face-to-face interaction with an interviewer who reads questions and records responses. The choice between a questionnaire and a schedule depends on factors such as the nature of the study, the target population, available resources, and the level of interaction and detail required in data collection.