ESRA 2027 sessions by theme

Back to Overview of Sessions

Session Details

Respondents’ comprehension of questionnaires and accompanying survey materials is fundamental to both participation and data quality, yet it remains comparatively under-examined in survey research. Survey invitations and other accompanying materials are important for building trust and encouraging participation; difficulties understanding who is conducting a survey, why participation is requested, or what participation entails may discourage respondents from taking part. Within questionnaires, misunderstanding of questions or response options may lead to inaccurate responses. Comprehension problems may be especially pronounced among individuals with low literacy, limited familiarity with the survey topic or format, diverse linguistic or cultural backgrounds, or cognitive impairments. At the same time, emerging technologies, including machine learning and generative AI, offer new opportunities to identify and address comprehension problems, for instance, through automated detection of difficult wording, tailored interventions, language simplifications, or the simulation of how respondents may interpret survey questions or other materials.

This session welcomes presentations examining comprehension of questionnaires and accompanying survey materials, as well as strategies to reduce comprehension difficulties, particularly but not only for groups at greater risk of comprehension problems. We welcome submissions that explore theoretical, methodological, or practical advancements, including but not limited to:
- Improving comprehension and cognitive accessibility through plain language, instrument design, alternative formats, or assistive technologies
- Identifying comprehension difficulties using cognitive interviewing, response-time analysis, experimental designs, behavioral or paradata, or AI-based detection and prediction methods
- Identifying sources of comprehension difficulties, examining which respondent characteristics, questionnaire features or survey materials are associated with greater comprehension challenges
- Adapting questionnaires and accompanying survey materials for groups facing comprehension and participation barriers, including community-engaged approaches

The session seeks to advance the discussion around survey comprehension by sharing evidence-based practices, highlighting promising technologies, and identifying ongoing challenges.