Survey Mode Effects on Valuation of Environmental Goods
Author Information
Author(s): Jason Bell, Joel Huber, W. Kip Viscusi
Primary Institution: Duke University and Vanderbilt University
Hypothesis
The choice of survey recruitment mode influences the valuation of environmental goods.
Conclusion
Different survey modes significantly affect the estimated value of water quality, with the national Internet panel yielding the most reliable results.
Supporting Evidence
- The Internet panel produced the most representative sample and lowest inconsistency in responses.
- Phone-mail and mall intercept modes yielded higher valuations than the Internet panel.
- Demographic characteristics significantly influenced the valuation outcomes across different survey modes.
- Self-selection bias was evident in modes that relied on phone recruitment.
Takeaway
How you ask people about the value of clean water can change their answers a lot, and asking online seems to get the best results.
Methodology
The study compared four survey modes: central location, mall intercept, phone-mail, and Internet panel, analyzing their effects on water quality valuation.
Potential Biases
Self-selection bias may affect the representativeness of the sample, particularly in modes that rely on phone recruitment.
Limitations
The study may not account for all demographic differences and self-selection biases inherent in survey participation.
Participant Demographics
Participants were primarily adults over 18, with variations in education, income, and environmental interest across survey modes.
Statistical Information
P-Value
p<0.01
Statistical Significance
p<0.01
Digital Object Identifier (DOI)
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