Rural household data collection in developing countries : designing instruments and methods for collecting time allocation data

The most common methods for collecting time allocation data include observation, such as participant observation and intensive observation, random spot checks, and recall, such as recordkeeping and interviews. The most difficult conceptual problems related to collecting time allocation data are how to gauge the quality of work performed over time when the researcher is using time allocation to measure labor output or energy expenditure, accounting for simultaneous and interspersed activities, handling different cultural concepts of time, reconciling differences in respondent and enumerator perception of events, and choosing a sample. Intensive observation and participant observation provide the greatest detail on time allocation but are time-consuming methods to use and to record data from. Random spot check observation provides less detail but is less time consuming while providing a statistically robust sample of activity. However, random spot checks do not work well when the focus of the study is a particular type of activity, especially when this activity is performed in distant locations. Interviews depend on respondents" recall and perception of activity and can be easily collected along with other data. Interview data quality depends on how selectively respondents recall and interviewers record activities, as well as on the length of the recall period. Recordkeeping can provide detailed information, is easy to monitor, and can be combined with collection of other data but can only be used effectively in areas with high literacy rates and where respondents are willing to keep records for extended periods of time. (Author abstract)