Formation des enquêteur.trice.s et gestion de la collecte

Interviewer training sessions usually last from one to three days. Three main areas are covered:

• a detailed presentation of project objectives, from the survey context to the specific set of research questions the survey is designed to investigate. This component of training is usually handled by the research team. The aim is to get interviewers interested in the project and to motivate them, to provide them with arguments to be used when presenting the survey to future respondents, and to improve the quality of the data collected and its relevance to project objectives;
• a detailed presentation and explanation of the questionnaire, after which interviewers administer it among themselves (simulations). This phase helps them to understand the questionnaire in detail and to strengthen their commitment to the project;
• a presentation of the entire set of data collection tools and other aspects of the survey. Here it may be necessary to spend time on the sampling procedure, the information letters sent out to respondents, the contact information file and contact log, methods for presenting the survey and contacting respondents, the set of arguments to be used. This part of the training may also involve practice in making contact with respondents, presenting arguments, etc.

All these points are crucial for estimating survey participation and non-response rates and data quality. They take time and should not be underestimated.

Lastly, in surveys conducted in particular contexts with which interviewers may be unfamiliar, it may be useful for field workers to present an overall picture of the context in which they will be working and answer any questions or concerns they may have

Data collection management involves keeping track of all aspects of the process, from recovering completed questionnaires to contacts with interviewers and the target population. Several tools have been designed for the task, from interviewer reports of their dealings with respondents in the field, to internal follow-up (or joint follow-up with a service provider) of progress in data collection and any difficulties that may arise. Appropriate computer tools for this purpose must be devised for each survey.

Regular, close contact with interviewers, and the presence of the survey designers may make it easier to deal with sensitive situations, but also, in more "classic" surveys, may provide a stimulant and/or an opportunity to remind interviewers of the relevant procedures and instructions.