Module 4. Survey design

Types of sampling design

National and subnational estimates, principals and purpose of stratification

The survey approach: independent or combined with another

Method of collecting data: paper-based or electronic

Introduction

There are many types of survey design that can be used in different contexts. The design determines whether the outcomes of the survey will meet the agreed objectives. It also affects most aspects of a survey, including sample size calculations and data analysis. This module describes the more common types of household-based surveys used to assess indicators for the coverage of interventions, micronutrient status, and other relevant factors (for example, knowledge of a specific micronutrient deficiency and practices in relation to an intervention).

Certain aspects of the survey design will depend on whether the survey is intended as a single assessment of micronutrient status or intervention coverage, or whether it is part of a series of periodic assessments over time. A single survey may be conducted to assess the prevalence of micronutrient deficiencies and anaemia in one or more population groups to determine the need for an intervening or for policy and programme changes. The data may also be used for global reporting. A series of periodic assessments or an endline survey may be conducted to assess the status or effect of an intervention or programme compared to a baseline survey.

This module focuses on the most typical aspects of large-scale micronutrient survey design. For updates on basic sampling theory and terminology, it may be useful to review the document “Definitions of Survey Sampling Terminology” prior to reading this module.

Generic Household Listing Form

Template of a household listing sheet that can be used when houses are selected for sampling

Download

Segmentation of primary sampling units

Step by step instructions on how to do segmentation

Download

Kyrgyzstan national survey report (2013)

Survey report from Krygyzstan

Download

Tanzania national survey report (2015)

Survey report from the fortification assessment coverage survey conducted in 2015

Download

Resources - survey design

Download