Sample interview questions: How do you account for potential biases related to historical data collection methods in your demographic research?
Sample answer:
Addressing Biases in Historical Data Collection Methods
- Recognize Limitations: Acknowledge that historical data collection methods may have been influenced by social, cultural, and technological biases of the time.
- Triangulate Sources: Consult multiple historical sources, such as census records, surveys, and qualitative accounts, to cross-validate data and reduce bias.
- Consider Context: Examine the historical context in which data was collected, including political, economic, and societal factors that may have shaped the collection process.
- Identify and Address Underreporting: Historical data often undercounts marginalized groups, such as racial minorities or women. Researchers should consider methods to adjust for potential underreporting, such as imputation techniques.
- Use Sensitivity Analyses: Conduct sensitivity analyses to assess the impact of potential biases on the research findings. For example, researchers can explore different assumptions about data co… Read full answer