Value of audio-enhanced handheld computers over paper surveys with adolescents

Am J Health Behav. 2013 Jan;37(1):62-9. doi: 10.5993/AJHB.37.1.7.

Abstract

Objective: To examine the impact of 3 data collection modes on the number of questions answered, data quality, and student preference.

Methods: 275 urban seventh-grade students were recruited and randomly assigned to complete a paper survey (SAQ), PDA survey (PDA), or PDA survey with audio (APDA). Students completed a paper debriefing survey.

Results: APDA respondents completed significantly more questions compared to SAQ and PDA. PDA and APDA had significantly less missing data than did SAQ. No differences were found for student evaluation.

Conclusions: Strong benefits may be gained by the use of APDA for adolescent school-based data collection.

Publication types

  • Research Support, N.I.H., Extramural

MeSH terms

  • Adolescent
  • Adolescent Behavior / psychology*
  • Audiovisual Aids / statistics & numerical data*
  • Computers, Handheld / statistics & numerical data*
  • Cross-Sectional Studies / statistics & numerical data
  • Female
  • Health Surveys / methods*
  • Health Surveys / statistics & numerical data
  • Humans
  • Male
  • Paper*
  • Psychomotor Performance
  • Research Design / statistics & numerical data*