Scaling up Smartphone Data Collection: Can it Work?

• Activity Number: 517 - Survey Research Methods Section P.M. Roundtable Discussion
• Type: Roundtables
• Date/Time: Thursday, August 6, 2020 : 12:00 PM to 1:00 PM
• Sponsor: Survey Research Methods Section
• Author(s): Christopher Antoun* and Florian Keusch and Frauke Kreuter
• Companies: University of Mayland and University of Mannheim and University of Maryland, University of Mannheim & IAB
• Keywords: mobile data collection; sensors; passive data collection; mobile web surveys

Abstract

In small-scale volunteer studies, researchers are increasingly using smartphone apps to administer survey questions and collect passive measurements via sensors (e.g., GPS, accelerometer, microphone, connected “wearables”). Can statistical organizations do the same in large-scale probability studies? The purpose of this roundtable is to consider the place of smartphone data collection in surveys that make population inferences. We will review feasibility studies on topics such as health, time use, economic activity, and expenditures. After that introduction, roundtable participants will be encouraged to discuss issues with smartphone data collection including 1) how to ensure that sample members have the necessary technology to participate; 2) how to encourage participation; 3) how to achieve “informed” consent; and 4) how to ensure privacy protection. At the end of the session, we will try to highlight issues that emerged from the discussion and identify next steps for research in this area.