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What is paradata?
Paradata is a term used to describe data generated as a by-product of the data collection process. Types of paradata vary from contact attempt history records for interviewer-assisted operations, to form tracing using tracking numbers in mail surveys, to keystroke or mouse-click history for internet self-response surveys. Because paradata are a by-product of a given data collection operation, the format, layout and content of paradata are a function of the system that generated the data. Integrating these data requires a variety of software and statistical tools. These challenges are worth overcoming, however, as paradata can be informative about the progress, cost and quality of both particular data collection operations and overall survey management.
Why does the Census Bureau need paradata?
Nonresponse in federal surveys increasing as budgets for data collection are decreasing. In order to gather and provide accurate information on the U.S. population and economy in a cost-effective manner, we need to utilize our resources efficiently. Paradata can help us identify potential areas of improvement, implement changes, and then evaluate the effect of those changes.
Paradata are used for a variety of reasons across the Bureau, in order to:
Administrative Records
View information on Administrative Records for Research at the U.S. Census Bureau.
Behavioral Science Methods
The Center for Survey Measurement (CSM) conducts research on questionnaire design and evaluation.
Big Data
Learn how the U.S. Census Bureau is using new types of data and analysis to improve and strengthen our statistics.
Data Science
View information on Data Science for Research at the U.S. Census Bureau.
Disclosure Avoidance
Learn more about areas of statistical disclosure control, confidentiality, and disclosure limitation.
Federal Statistical Research Data Centers
The Federal Statistical System Research Data Centers are partnerships between federal statistical agencies and leading research institutions.
General Economic Research
View information on General Economic Research at the U.S. Census Bureau.
Mortality Disparities in American Communities (MDAC)
Research database on 2008 American Community Survey respondents and a follow-up of mortality outcomes through 2015.
Statistical Research
CSRM conducts research on statistical design, modeling, and analysis methods for the Census Bureau's data collection, analysis, and dissemination programs.
Time Series and Seasonal Adjustment
Seasonal adjustment is the estimation of the seasonal component, followed by their removal from the time series.
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