Attrition strategies Sample Clauses

Attrition strategies. Longitudinal survey response rates are rarely comparable as different institutions have different approaches to account for response rates, as described above (i.e. it can be based on the number of eligible participants, on the number of respondents in the first wave, or on the number of respondents in the previous wave). A key challenge for longitudinal surveys is to avoid respondent attrition. Several strategies have been employed as best practice in the combating of attrition brought about by non-response. Data-adjustment has been one such strategy, weighting responses of under- represented groups more heavily than that of over-represented groups. Other data-adjustment strategies include sample additions (i.e. involving new participants), interposed waves (i.e. offering non-respondents the opportunity to participate in between waves) and over sampling in the first wave to account for future attrition. Other strategies to mitigate panel attrition have revolved around attempts to increase response rates. Monetary incentives have ranged up to approximately EUR 30 per person and have worked better the higher the value of the incentive. Vouchers, free entertainment tickets (e.g. cinema), small gifts (for children), and prize draws have often been successfully used. When the goal is to enrol children, financial gifts to their parents are also effective. The amount and form of the incentives can be adjusted in follow up waves depending on response rates. Additional incentives can be offered to households who had expressed a ‘soft refusal’. Attrition can also be reduced through spending that is not linked to incentives. For instance, free public transport or parking, accommodation, meals, and child-care can be provided to reduce participation costs for respondents. Letters to employers asking for the respondent’s time off can also be valuable attrition strategy tools. Other best practice strategies are those that rely on high volumes of communication with participants. A decade ago, this generally included sending pre-survey letters and post-survey thank you postcards, but in more modern times, engagement through email newsletters, YouTube videos, other new media (e.g. Facebook pages), and even online games has been judged preferable. Some media coverage appeared successful for regional surveys. In Australia, a television series following a cohort was produced. That said, postal surveys and/or reminders can still be a method to reduce attrition where phone call...