Q: I am creating a feedback survey for students in Quercus and would like to use a 5-point rating scale that appears horizontally, with check-off boxes at each point. However, I can’t find a way to create the scale in a horizontal format.
This scale has been researched and validated through historical use, so it’s important that it be presented horizontally. How can I create this type of scale?
A: Quercus does offer two possible options for creating Likert-scale questions, but unfortunately, none of them support a fully horizontal layout.
If you want to create the rating scale directly in Quercus, even though it will not display horizontally, you can use either the Multiple Dropdown or Multiple-Choice question types in Quercus survey. If you prefer the scale to appear horizontally, a better option is to use MS Forms to create the survey and then share the survey’s Collect Responses link in Quercus so that students can access it. If the survey is for research purposes and needs to include a horizontal rating scale question, you may also consider using REDCap.
Below are the options that can be used to create a rating scale:
Quercus survey
Option 1: Multiple Dropdown question type
The Multiple Dropdown question type can be used for setting up Likert scale questions in Quercus surveys. For detailed instructions and steps, see How do I create Likert scale quiz questions?. This option allows you to list statements with response items representing an agreement scale (e.g., strongly agree to strongly disagree). However, the response options are displayed vertically, not horizontally.
Option 2: Multiple Choice question type
You can also use a Multiple-Choice question in the survey and add the 5 rating points as response options. For instructions on creating a Multiple-Choice question in a Quercus survey, refer to How do I create a Multiple Choice quiz question?. However, like the Multiple Dropdown option, the response options will appear vertically rather than horizontally.
MS Forms
Because Quercus has limited support for horizontal Likert scales, MS Forms could be a good alternative for creating the survey: Use the Likert question type in MS Forms to display the scale horizontally. Once the survey in MS Forms created, you can either share the Collect Responses link in Quercus or embed the survey directly on a Quercus page (see: How do I embed a Microsoft Office Form in a Quercus Page?).
REDCap
Another option for creating Likert scale questions in surveys, particularly for research purposes, is REDCap (the University of Toronto’s recommended survey and data analysis tool). To request access to REDCap, please refer to our guide: How can I request access to REDCap?
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