SC971-7-AU-CO:
Survey Sampling, Non-Response and Inference
2020/21
Sociology and Criminology
Colchester Campus
Autumn
Postgraduate: Level 7
Current
Thursday 08 October 2020
Friday 18 December 2020
20
29 June 2020
Requisites for this module
(none)
(none)
(none)
(none)
(none)
MSC L31012 Survey Methods for Social Research,
MSC L310MO Survey Methods for Social Research,
MSC L31124 Migration Studies
The composition of a survey sample has an important influence on the accuracy of survey results. This is determined by the sample design and by which sample members participate and provide data. This module focusses firstly on how best the processes of sample design and nonresponse can be controlled in a diverse range of practical situations and, secondly, on how to take sample design and nonresponse into account when analysing survey data. The module focuses particularly on the statistical aspects of survey design and implementation, but emphasising the importance of understanding the practical constraints within which these issues must be dealt with.
The aim of the module is to provide the student with a good understanding of all the key aspects of survey sample design, survey design to minimise non-response, and analysis methods to adjust for non-response. Specifically, the objectives are that by the end of the course the student should possess the knowledge and skills to be able to:
- Estimate standard errors that take sample design into account;
- Propose methods to maximise response rates to surveys of different types, within constraints;
- Understand the range of analysis methods available to adjust for non-response;
- Calculate and apply non-response adjustment weights.
By the end of the module students should be able to:
* Understand and critique the sample design of any survey;
* Develop a sample design for a survey with stated objectives;
* Estimate standard errors that take sample design into account;
* Propose methods to maximise response rates to surveys of different types, within constraints;
* Understand the range of analysis methods available to adjust for non-response;
* Calculate and apply non-response adjustment weights.
Please note that assessment information is currently showing for 2019-20 and will be updated in September.
Indicative Outline of Topics
* Survey sampling principles and practice
* Stratified sampling and multi-stage sampling
Sampling methods in practice
* Estimation with complex samples
Introduction to survey nonresponse
* How to minimise non-contacts, refusals and item non-response
* Panel attrition; interviewer training
* Methods for studying non-response
* Weighting for nonresponse
- Groves, Robert M. (c2009) Survey methodology, Hoboken, N.J.: Wiley.
- (©2016) Research methods for postgraduates, Chichester: John Wiley & Sons.
- Kempf Leonard, Kimberly. (2005) Encyclopedia of social measurement, Oxford: Elsevier/Academic.
The above list is indicative of the essential reading for the course. The library makes provision for all reading list items, with digital provision where possible, and these resources are shared between students. Further reading can be obtained from this module's reading list.
Assessment items, weightings and deadlines
| Coursework / exam |
Description |
Deadline |
Coursework weighting |
| Coursework |
Assignment 1 |
|
50% |
| Coursework |
Assignment 2 |
|
50% |
Additional coursework information
The module is assessed through two pieces of course work, a mixture of empirically-based and essay-based
Exam format definitions
- Remote, open book: Your exam will take place remotely via an online learning platform. You may refer to any physical or electronic materials during the exam.
- In-person, open book: Your exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer to any physical materials such as paper study notes or a textbook during the exam. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
- In-person, open book (restricted): The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may refer only to specific physical materials such as a named textbook during the exam. Permitted materials will be specified by your department. Electronic devices may not be used in the exam.
- In-person, closed book: The exam will take place on campus under invigilation. You may not refer to any physical materials or electronic devices during the exam. There may be times when a paper dictionary,
for example, may be permitted in an otherwise closed book exam. Any exceptions will be specified by your department.
Your department will provide further guidance before your exams.
Overall assessment
Reassessment
Module supervisor and teaching staff
Dr Olena Kaminska, email: olena@essex.ac.uk.
Olena, Kaminska
Michele Hall, Graduate Administrator, Telephone 01206 873051, Email: socpgadm@essex.ac.uk
Yes
No
No
Prof Paul Stretesky
The University of Northumbria at Newcastle
Professor of Criminology
Prof Benjamin Bradford
University College London
Professor
Available via Moodle
Of 843 hours, 0 (0%) hours available to students:
843 hours not recorded due to service coverage or fault;
0 hours not recorded due to opt-out by lecturer(s).
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