What method of administration must be used when conducting survey research with children?

When conducting survey research with children, using a face-to-face interview is typically the method of administration that is most appropriate. This approach allows researchers to establish a direct connection with the child, creating a more comfortable environment and enabling the researcher to explain questions clearly and ensure understanding.

Children may have varying levels of comprehension when it comes to written or complex verbal questions, which can be challenging in formats such as online surveys, telephone surveys, or mail surveys. A face-to-face interaction allows the researcher to read the child's body language, monitor their reactions, and ask follow-up questions as needed to clarify any misunderstandings. Additionally, this method promotes trust and rapport, which is essential when working with a younger population.

In contrast, other methods like mail or online surveys may lead to high rates of incomplete responses or confusion due to the lack of immediate support. Telephone surveys can be less effective as well, since younger children might struggle with the absence of visual cues or prompts that a face-to-face interaction would provide. Therefore, face-to-face interviews are often favored in survey research involving children to maximize data quality and ethical considerations in engaging with a vulnerable population.