Data Collection

SRC maintains a staff trained to undertake surveys involving several modes of data collection: face-to-face interviews, telephone interviews (both CATI and paper-pencil), self-administered questionnaires, and abstraction of data from administrative records. SRC staff work with clients to develop a method of data collection which best meets research objectives and falls within study budgets. The Center conducts telephone studies at the local or regional, state, and national level. Center projects involving in-person interviews are typically local, although arrangements can be made for statewide surveys.

SRC places a major emphasis on quality control for all data collection activities. All interviewers participate in rigorous interactive training sessions designed to instill the basic principles of interviewing and the procedures specific to each study. A high ratio of supervisors to interviewers insures data quality and high response rates throughout the data collection phase of Center projects. All interviewers are required to meet regularly with supervisors to review completed work. On telephone studies, supervisors monitor interviews directly; for studies involving face-to-face interviews, a proportion of interviews is verified.

For a brochure (pdf) or further information on interviewing and data collection, contact us by phone at 510-642-6578, or e-mail srcinfo@berkeley.edu