Citation

van der Reis P. Transp. Res. Circular 2000; (E-C008): 11 p..

Copyright

(Copyright © 2000, U.S. National Academy of Sciences Transportation Research Board)

DOI

unavailable

PMID

unavailable

Abstract

Transportation surveys have been conducted in South Africa for the past twenty years. This paper examines some of the problems and difficulties experienced in undertaking surveys among illiterate and semiliterate commuters. Qualitative research techniques were used to probe the nature and extent of these problems. The stated preference (SP) technique was used as an example of how particular problems may be minimized. The most serious problems identified were the lack of a sampling framework, the difficulty of language equivalence and unfamiliar terminology, respondent suspicion of the survey objectives, respondents' fear of making mistakes and giving wrong answers, lack of familiarity with rating-scale techniques, difficulty in conceptualizing SP trade-off options, and negative attitudes toward omitted or perceived-as-unfair SP choices. Solutions recommended include the use of maps derived from aerial photography for sample frameworks; the observance of local customs and structures; empathetic interviewers with knowledge of the respondents' language; the use of qualitative techniques to uncover concepts, terminology and procedures that are unfamiliar to respondents; and the development of methods to aid explanation of the survey purpose and process. It is suggested that, apart from developing countries, these findings and solutions are applicable to the marginal populations of developed cities.