Computer-assisted interviewing

What is Computer-Assisted Interviewing?

Computer-Assisted Interviewing (CAI) is the use of computer technology to facilitate the collection and analysis of data from interviews. It is an alternative to traditional face-to-face interviewing, allowing researchers to gather data in a more efficient and cost-effective manner. CAI can be used to collect data from a variety of sources, including questionnaires, surveys, focus groups, and individual interviews.

Advantages of Computer-Assisted Interviewing

Computer-Assisted Interviewing offers a number of advantages over traditional methods of data collection. These advantages include:

  • Time savings – CAI allows for quicker data collection and analysis, which can reduce the time needed for a project.
  • Cost savings – CAI can be less expensive than traditional methods, as there is no need to hire staff for interviews or for data entry.
  • Ease of use – CAI is easy to use and can be accessed from any computer or device. This makes it ideal for remote data collection.
  • Data accuracy – CAI eliminates the possibility of human error, resulting in more accurate data.
  • Data security – CAI ensures data security, as the data is not stored on any external device.

Examples of Computer-Assisted Interviewing

Computer-Assisted Interviewing can be used in a variety of ways. Some examples include:

  • Online surveys – CAI can be used to create and distribute online surveys, allowing researchers to quickly collect data from a large number of individuals.
  • Focus groups – CAI can be used to create and distribute online focus groups, allowing researchers to quickly collect data from a smaller number of individuals.
  • Telephone interviews – CAI can be used to create and distribute telephone interviews, allowing researchers to quickly collect data from a large number of individuals.
  • Video interviews – CAI can be used to create and distribute video interviews, allowing researchers to quickly collect data from a large number of individuals.

Computer-Assisted Interviewing offers a number of advantages over traditional methods of data collection, and can be used in a variety of ways. It is an efficient and cost-effective way to gather data from a variety of sources.

Conclusion

Computer-Assisted Interviewing is a powerful tool for data collection and analysis. It offers numerous advantages over traditional methods, including time and cost savings, ease of use, data accuracy, and data security. CAI can be used in a variety of ways, including online surveys, focus groups, telephone interviews, and video interviews.

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