Error and Bias in Geocoding School and Students’ Home Addresses
Author Information
Author(s): Eric A. Whitsel
Primary Institution: University of North Carolina, Chapel Hill
Hypothesis
How does positional error in geocoding affect the assessment of traffic-related exposures for school children?
Conclusion
Positional errors in geocoding can lead to significant overestimations of the number of children at risk for traffic-related exposures.
Supporting Evidence
- The study found a 200–500 m range of mean positional errors in geocoded addresses.
- Lower thresholds for defining traffic-related exposure lead to overestimations of risk.
- The sensitivity and specificity of the 100-m threshold were around 90% at positional errors of 250–300 m.
Takeaway
When we try to figure out how close kids' homes are to busy roads, mistakes in the addresses can make it look like more kids are in danger than really are.
Methodology
The study analyzed positional errors in geocoding school and home addresses and their impact on traffic exposure assessments.
Potential Biases
There is a risk of overestimating exposure due to positional errors in geocoding.
Limitations
The findings may not be generalizable beyond Orange County without further validation.
Participant Demographics
Participants were school children from Orange County, Florida.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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