Mobile Computer-Assisted Personal Interviewing with Handheld Computers: The Entryware System 3.0

Abstract

Computer-assisted data collection in survey research offers potentially lower costs, quicker turnaround time, and improved data quality as compared to traditional paper-and-pencil methods. The proliferation of handheld computers in recent years now makes these benefits more accessible to field researchers. Handheld computers are inexpensive, portable, and energy efficient, making them ideal field instruments. In this article, I review a new software product designed for mobile computer-assisted personal interviewing (MCAPI) with Palm OS handheld computers. Based on my experience with MCAPI in the field, I conclude that version 3.0 of Entryware software is a robust tool for face-to-face or self-administered structured interviews in field settings. I also consider some implications of this new technology for field research, including respondents' reactions and data quality.

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