Mode Effect and Response Rate Issues in Mixed-Mode Survey Research: Implications for Recreational Fisheries Management
Academic Article
Overview
Research
Identity
Additional Document Info
Other
View All
Overview
abstract
AbstractWhile the social, economic, and ecological impact of recreational fisheries is well established, the inherent diversity of both fisheries resources and resource users, particularly anglers, continues to present a challenge for management agencies. To better understand the diversity of recreational anglers, agencies often utilize survey methods to collect data on angler characteristics and preferences. However, obtaining necessary and representative data is becoming more challenging, exacerbated by declining response rates and an increase in the number of single and mixedmode survey designs researchers can choose to collect data. We examined three survey designssurface mail with a Web push, email, and mixed modeeach with varying modes of solicitation and response, in the context of a statewide survey of licensed Texas anglers. Our findings illustrated that response rates varied considerably among these three survey designs. We also observed significant variation in terms of anglers sociodemographic characteristics based on solicitation and response modes of each survey design. Interestingly, we observed limited variation in terms of anglers behaviors, preferences, and motivations. Our results highlight the need for researchers and managers to be aware of the various survey designs available and the variability that particular survey designs can introduce into data.Received August 1, 2014; accepted March 2, 2016 Published online July 13, 2016
