Abstract
Aim
Research projects are a compulsory part of the postgraduate curriculum in most Academic Departments. To not only fulfil study requirements, but to ensure noteworthy and accurate results meticulous and reliable data collection is necessary. Our aim was to better understand what preferences health care professionals have in undertaking data collection.
Methods
We did a choice based conjoint analysis with an online data collection survey. This study type allows the evaluation of the relative importance of component attributes. We used 4 major criteria to evaluate preferences when performing data collection. These were: 1. Time to complete the form, 2. Remuneration and recognition, 3. Study design and 4. Responsibilities at the time of collection. We sent electronic questionnaires to doctors in the Orthopaedic, Ophthalmology and Plastic Surgery Departments at a Johannesburg Academic Institution.
Results
We received 68 responses. In general the most the most alluring trait to a data collection form is Tick Box Answer format. This is followed by the need to be recognized as a co-author on publication and the completion of forms in a time other than during work. The amount of time it takes is the least important. Recognition as a co-author of a study was more important than financial remuneration. The major difference between the 34 Orthopaedic respondents and the rest was that they were less likely to complete forms in their spare time and are less concerned with the time taken. Regressional analysis shows that data collection design must be tailored to specific groups as there are preference differences.
NO DISCLOSURES
