Lesson 4: Surveys and Nonprofits
Handout 1

Survey Question Possibilities

Before beginning the survey, have the learners explain to the people they are surveying what the survey is about. They should tell the prospective interviewees that they will be answering questions about women and minorities acting as an alternative power structure in the past to create positive change for the common good. The survey will also attempt to discover what they feel is/are the main problem/s facing marginalized disenfranchised and/or disadvantaged groups and individuals now, and what can be done to overcome these problems.

The learners should explain to the interviewees that they would like to compile data to be published in either the school or local newspaper. Therefore, they would like to obtain their approximate age, race, and gender to assist with the statistical data.

The following are some possible survey questions:

  1. Do you know of any local women or minority groups that have acted as an alternative power structure to improve conditions for the common good? Name them.

  2. Can you name specific problems or issues that these groups have focused on throughout the past several years?

  3. Were these groups successful in achieving positive changes for the common good through their efforts?

  4. What were some problems that these groups encountered through their efforts?

  5. Were these problems that the groups encountered an example of society's reaction to the group because they were a women's group or a minority group?

  6. Were you ever a member of a women's group or a minority group that tried to achieve positive change for the common good?

  7. Did you have any friends or relatives that were involved in a women's group or a minority group that tried to achieve positive change for the common good?

  8. If you were in a group or were friends of anyone in one of these groups, were you ever discriminated against, because of your involvement with the group or its members?

  9. What do you see as problems or issues that need to be addressed by women and/or minority groups in today's world?

  10. How do you think these specific problems can be solved? What action should be taken by the nonprofit sector?