Final answer:
The question that could be best answered by using the survey method is C) Do students prefer a grading system with or without pluses and minuses, as it involves gathering subjective responses on preferences.
Step-by-step explanation:
To determine which question could be best answered by using the survey method, we need to consider which inquiry is most fitting for collecting subjective opinions or perspectives rather than requiring strictly objective, controlled observations or experiments. In this context, option C, "Do students prefer a grading system with or without pluses and minuses?" is most suitable for a survey since it seeks to gauge student preferences, which are inherently subjective and can be effectively captured through surveys. This preference can vary widely among individuals and a survey is an efficient way to collect this data from a large group.
Surveys are less effective when it comes to establishing causal relationships or measuring changes in behavior under controlled conditions. Hence, understanding the effect of alcohol on problem-solving ability (option A), or the relationship between wall color and violence in prisons (option B) would likely require experimental methods. Similarly, examining the link between violent video game play and antisocial behavior (option D) is more complex and could involve variables that a simple survey might not adequately control for.