Course for PhDs and beyond

Surveys: Operationalisation, question design, and execution

Course Description: In this course, participants will study how to operationalize and design surveys, and critically reflect on their results. This course will enable participants to:

  • operationalize an empirical research question into a quantitative survey design;
  • grasp basic tenets of survey design (construct operationalization, question item drafting, ordering, ensuring fit for analysis);
  • practice in the design of a survey (which will be used to gather real data);
  • discuss and report the results of such a survey;
  • critically reflect on survey research; and
  • ensure future survey research collaboration with experienced social scientists.

Prior Requirements: None.

When: The course has 4 classes, on the following dates:

  • 05 February 2026, 14:00 – 16:00
  • 12 February 2026, 14:00 – 16:00
  • 19 February 2026, 14:00 – 16:00
  • 26 February 2026, 14:00 – 16:00

Maximum of external participants: The course has up to five spots available for staff from other universities.

Lecturers: Primary lecturer Dr. Chris Reinders Folmer; Secondary lecturer: Prof.dr. Benjamin van Rooij.

Registration deadline: Anytime before the start of the course. For questions and registration, please contact Noah van Dongen at n.n.n.vandongen@uva.nl.

Extra information: The courses will be offered in English and in-person in the A building on the Roeterseiland Campus of the UvA.