Computer-assisted personal interviewing

Definition

Computer-assisted personal interviewing (CAPI) is a data collection method that utilizes a computer to assist an interviewer in conducting face-to-face interviews with respondents. This approach enhances the efficiency and accuracy of the survey process by automating data entry and providing dynamic questioning based on previous answers, ensuring a more tailored and engaging interaction between the interviewer and the respondent.

5 Must Know Facts For Your Next Test

1. CAPI allows for real-time data entry, reducing the likelihood of errors that occur during manual data entry.
2. The method can incorporate multimedia elements like videos and images to enhance respondent engagement and understanding.
3. CAPI enables the use of skip patterns in surveys, allowing questions to adapt based on previous responses, making interviews more relevant for each respondent.
4. This approach typically requires interviewers to be trained in using computer equipment and software effectively for optimal results.
5. CAPI is often used in market research, public health surveys, and social science studies due to its flexibility and efficiency.

Review Questions

• How does computer-assisted personal interviewing improve the efficiency and accuracy of data collection compared to traditional methods?
  • Computer-assisted personal interviewing improves efficiency by automating data entry during face-to-face interactions, which minimizes transcription errors common in traditional paper-based surveys. Additionally, it allows for real-time updates and adjustments in questioning based on respondents' previous answers. This dynamic approach not only streamlines the process but also enhances accuracy by ensuring that data is entered directly into a system without manual handling.
• What role does technology play in shaping the design of surveys using CAPI, particularly regarding question flow and respondent engagement?
  • Technology plays a crucial role in CAPI by facilitating adaptive questioning, where survey software can automatically guide interviewers through tailored question flows based on respondent answers. This helps keep respondents engaged as questions become more relevant to their experiences. Furthermore, incorporating multimedia elements like images or videos can enrich the survey experience, making it more interactive and effective at eliciting accurate responses.
• Evaluate the implications of using CAPI for understanding public attitudes in a rapidly changing digital landscape.
  • Using computer-assisted personal interviewing offers significant advantages for understanding public attitudes in today's digital landscape. The ability to collect data quickly and accurately reflects real-time opinions, which is crucial as social norms and values shift rapidly. Moreover, leveraging technology allows researchers to reach diverse populations effectively, ensuring that insights gathered are representative of broader societal trends. However, researchers must also consider potential challenges such as digital literacy disparities among respondents, which could impact inclusivity and data quality.

Related terms

Survey Methodology: The study of the various methods used to collect data from respondents in order to gather insights and information.

Data Collection:

The process of gathering information from various sources to address specific research questions or objectives.

Interviewer Bias: A situation where the presence or behavior of the interviewer influences the responses given by the respondent, potentially skewing the data.