title: Use of handheld computers with global positioning systems for probability sampling and data entry in household surveys.
abstract: We introduce an innovative method that uses personal digital assistants (PDAs) equipped with global positioning system (GPS) units in household surveys to select a probability-based sample and perform PDA-based interviews. Our approach uses PDAs with GPS to rapidly map all households in selected areas, choose a random sample, and navigate back to the sampled households to conduct an interview. We present recent field experience in two large-scale nationally representative household surveys to assess insecticide-treated bed net coverage as part of malaria control efforts in Africa. The successful application of this method resulted in statistically valid samples; quality-controlled data entry; and rapid aggregation, analyses, and availability of preliminary results within days of completing the field work. We propose this method as an alternative to the Expanded Program on Immunization cluster sample method when a fast, statistically valid survey is required in an environment with little census information at the enumeration area level.
authors: Division of Parasitic Diseases, Center for Infectious Diseases, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, 4770 Buford Highway, Atlanta, GA 30341, USA. jev8@cdc.gov
authors: Jodi L
authors: JL
authors: Vanden Eng
authors: Adam
authors: A
authors: Wolkon
authors: Anatoly S
authors: AS
authors: Frolov
authors: Dianne J
authors: DJ
authors: Terlouw
authors: M James
authors: MJ
authors: Eliades
authors: Kodjo
authors: K
authors: Morgah
authors: Vincent
authors: V
authors: Takpa
authors: Aboudou
authors: A
authors: Dare
authors: Yao K
authors: YK
authors: Sodahlon
authors: Yao
authors: Y
authors: Doumanou
authors: William A
authors: WA
authors: Hawley
authors: Allen W
authors: AW
authors: Hightower
mesh_terms: D002675:Child, Preschool; D034201:Computers, Handheld; D003625:Data Collection / Q000379:methods*; D005260:Female; D040362:Geographic Information Systems / Q000295:instrumentation*; D006801:Humans; D007223:Infant; D009548:Niger; D011247:Pregnancy; D014037:Togo