Evaluating Mixed-Mode in Panel Surveys: Where do we stand and where do we go from here? |
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| Coordinator 1 | Dr Patricia Hadler (GESIS - Leibniz Institute for the Social Sciences) |
| Coordinator 2 | Dr Steffen Pötzschke (GESIS - Leibniz Institute for the Social Sciences) |
Mixed-mode surveys combine different data collection methods such CAPI, CATI, PAPI, and CAWI. Mixed-mode designs (might) offer respondents the opportunity to respond to a survey in their preferred mode, can decrease biases etc. At the same time, mixing modes makes survey design more complex and raises questions regarding the comparability of measurements across modes.
Due to their longitudinal character and the need to safeguard data quality and measurement equivalence over time, mode choice is particularly important to panel studies. While some panel surveys used mixed-mode designs from the start, other, often long-running panel surveys have switched from mainly interviewer-administered data collection to mixed-mode designs employing additional self-administered approaches, or are even considering transitioning to web-only data collection in light of declining response rates and rising costs.
This session invites submissions exploring the use of mixed-mode data collection in panel surveys. Authors are encouraged to present research on the advantages, limitations, and implications of mixed-mode designs. Topics may include, but are not limited to:
- Mode effects: How do different modes impact data quality, measurement error, and response patterns?
- Sampling bias: Do mixed-mode designs improve sample quality?
- Cost-benefit analysis: What are the trade-offs between cost savings and data quality in mixed-mode approaches?
- Attrition: How do mixed-mode designs influence participant retention over time?
- Mode sequencing: What is the optimal mode sequence, and how do transitions affect respondent behaviour?
- Data harmonization: How can researchers ensure data comparability across modes?
- Innovation: How are emerging technologies—like mobile apps and passive data collection—transforming mixed-mode panel surveys?
We welcome empirical studies, theoretical analyses, case studies, and innovative methodologies that evaluate the state of the art of mixed-mode panel surveys and provide insight on possible future developments.