Why is it important to include open questions in a questionnaire?

Including open questions in a questionnaire is essential because they give respondents the freedom to express their thoughts, feelings, and insights in their own words. This format allows for a richer, more nuanced understanding of respondents' perspectives, as they can elaborate on their experiences and opinions without the constraints of predefined options. Open questions can reveal new themes and insights that closed questions may not capture, leading to more comprehensive data that can inform analysis and decision-making.

Furthermore, open questions can also encourage engagement from respondents, as they feel their individual experiences are valued. This can lead to more candid and thoughtful responses, enhancing the quality of the data collected. By allowing participants to articulate their ideas freely, researchers can uncover unexpected findings that can inform future research or practices.