Alternative Methods for Household Selection in Surveys
Author Information
Author(s): Rebecca F Grais, Angela MC Rose, Jean-Paul Guthmann
Primary Institution: Epicentre
Hypothesis
Can alternative methods for selecting the first household in urban cluster surveys reduce bias and improve efficiency compared to the traditional spin-the-pen method?
Conclusion
The sampling grid method was found to be the fastest and easiest for field survey teams, while the GPS method was also effective with proper training.
Supporting Evidence
- The spin-the-pen method was the most complicated and time-consuming.
- The sampling grid method was accomplished in the least amount of time.
- The GPS method received positive feedback but had navigation challenges in dense urban areas.
Takeaway
This study looked at different ways to pick the first house to survey in a neighborhood, finding that using a grid or GPS is quicker and easier than the old method of spinning a pen.
Methodology
The study compared three methods for selecting the first household in urban cluster surveys: spinning a pen, using a GPS point, and a sampling grid.
Potential Biases
The traditional method may favor households near the center of the cluster, leading to biased estimates.
Limitations
The study was limited to urban areas and may not be applicable to rural settings where household density varies significantly.
Participant Demographics
The study was conducted in Maradi, Niger, involving urban neighborhoods with varying household densities.
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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