In survey research, what term refers to the group of people who take part in the investigation?

• A. Population
• B. Participants
• C. Sample
• D. Target population

Answer: (B)

In survey research, the group that actually takes part in the investigation are the participants. This term emphasizes those who actively contribute data by responding to questions or measures.

Think of it this way: the population is the entire group you’re interested in understanding, not everyone may participate. The target population is the specific segment you intend to generalize your findings to. The sample is the actual set of individuals from the population who are included in the study and provide data. So the people who answer and participate are the participants. (Some researchers may also call them respondents, but participants is the commonly correct term for those who take part.)