CHIMA is conducting a research study to gather data from all of the members on the members' plans to pursue specialty designations. What type of study is this?

The study conducted by CHIMA to gather data from all members regarding their plans to pursue specialty designations is classified as a census survey. A census survey involves collecting information from every possible member of a defined population, in this case, all the members of CHIMA. This approach ensures comprehensive data collection, allowing for the most accurate reflection of members' intentions and plans regarding specialty designations.

The purpose of this research is likely to capture complete insights into the preferences and aspirations of all members, making it a thorough assessment rather than a sampling of opinions or data. Such a method can yield valuable information that is useful for identifying trends, needs, and areas for support within the professional community.

In contrast, the other study types, such as causal-comparative, correlational, and random surveys, can involve subsets of a population or different methodologies that may not capture the comprehensive data that a census survey achieves. Thus, conducting a census survey aligns perfectly with CHIMA's objective of gathering complete data from its entire membership.