Research Methodology
Westat is a leader in the development and evaluation of research methods across a diverse array of substantive areas. Early
achievements included the refinement of methods for random digit dialing (RDD) and computer-assisted telephone interviewing
(CATI). Cognitive methods include focus groups, concurrent and retrospective protocols, behavioral coding of
respondent-interviewer interactions, and respondent debriefings.
Other methodological research includes small-scale field tests and feasibility studies, as well as large-scale
methodological experiments. These methods are used to develop all phases of the survey process, including testing
recall, comprehension, and alternative wording for survey instruments; assessing various interviewing techniques and respondent
incentives; and comparing in-person and telephone data collection modalities.
- Cognitive laboratory interviews, focus groups, and think-aloud sessions are among the methods used to study
respondent and interviewer reactions to survey questions, response categories, and procedures. Westat has
evaluated and refined data collection methods for the Current Population Survey, the Consumer Expenditure Survey, the
Survey of Income and Program Participation, and many other large national surveys.
- Westat statisticians and survey methodologists have investigated methods for the Year 2000 Census. We have evaluated
methods for enumerating persons with no usual place of residence, assessed the value of incentives, and conducted
experiments in voice recognition response.
- For the National Health and Nutrition Examination Surveys, Westat has investigated techniques for addressing nonresponse
bias, tested the reliability of data from surrogate respondents, studied methods for improving response rates, and
developed a computerized model for improving the flow of participants through the mobile examination
center.
- Westat assisted the National Center for Health Statistics in exploring a linkage between the household-based National
Health Interview Survey (NHIS) and the provider-based National Health Care Survey. Westat compared responses to the
NHIS core questionnaire with information from medical records to evaluate the accuracy of self-reported
diagnostic information.
- Westat has performed a series of studies for the National Cancer Institute to identify or refine epidemiologic
research methods. This research has examined the use of deceased controls, the accuracy of information reported
by subjects or next of kin, the methods for collecting electromagnetic field measurements in residences, and the factors
that affect the level and quality of response to a survey.
- Westat's usability laboratory allows researchers to observe computer users performing
tasks with software and with web sites under controlled conditions. Studies in Westat's usability laboratory
have led to improved designs for several U.S. Government web sites.
- The Joint Program in Survey Methodology (JPSM)* is a consortium of the University
of Maryland, the University of Michigan, and Westat. Designed for Federal statisticians and other qualified professionals,
the JPSM presents a program of short courses and graduate-level instruction and conducts innovative
research on the statistical and methodological aspects of survey research. Several Westat statisticians are JPSM faculty
members.
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