Survey research is a method used to collect information from a group of people, known as a sample, to understand their opinions, behaviors, or characteristics. Researchers design questionnaires or interviews to gather data, which can be quantitative (numerical) or qualitative (descriptive). This approach helps in identifying trends and patterns within a population. The results from survey research can be analyzed to draw conclusions about the larger group, often referred to as the target population. Surveys can be conducted in various ways, including online, by phone, or in person, making them a versatile tool for gathering insights in fields like sociology, marketing, and public health.