The impact of mobile phones on survey measurement error

Publication type

Journal Article

Authors

Publication date

June 20, 2013

Summary:

We propose a framework of ways in which the different context of mobile interviews—such as multi-tasking, distraction, and the presence of others—and differences inherent in the technology can influence survey responses. The framework also highlights the mechanisms through which these influences operate. We evaluate selected elements of the framework using data from a randomized experiment in which respondents were interviewed by mobile or landline. Measures of interview context were gathered via interviewer evaluation, respondent perception, and direct questioning. We find less social desirability bias with mobile phone interviews, but overall only small differences between mobile and landline interviews.

Published in

Public Opinion Quarterly

Volume and page numbers

Volume: 77 , p.586 -605

DOI

http://dx.doi.org/10.1093/poq/nfs046

ISSN

33362

Notes

Albert Sloman Library Periodicals *restricted to Univ. Essex registered users*

#521830

News

Latest findings, new research

Publications search

Search all research by subject and author

Podcasts

Researchers discuss their findings and what they mean for society

Projects

Background and context, methods and data, aims and outputs

Events

Conferences, seminars and workshops

Survey methodology

Specialist research, practice and study

Taking the long view

ISER's annual report

Themes

Key research themes and areas of interest