In this episode of Survey & Beyond: The Data Collection Podcast, host Marta Costa is joined by Dr. Angela R. Pashayan, an expert in International Development, Experiential learning, Leading International trips, and Intercultural Communication. Together, they explore the ethics of field research in vulnerable communities. Drawing from her work in Nairobi, Kenya,, Dr. Pashayan shares valuable insights on navigating unexpected challenges in data collection, adapting research methodologies to local contexts, and preparing university students for the challenges and opportunities of fieldwork.

Dr. Pashayan is an Adjunct Professor at Johns Hopkins School of Advanced International Studies (SAIS) and a Visiting Professor at American University’s Nairobi Campus, where she leads research on informal settlements. Her research has been focussed on extreme poverty reduction in Mukuru, Nairobi slums and is published in her book, “Development in Africa's Informal Settlements,” which examines the disconnect between international development programs and the realities of slum dwellers.

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Episode Highlights 

[00:00] Intro
[01:23] - How Can You Avoid Bias in Your Survey Questions? 
[04:07] - How Do You Make Sure Questions Are Understood Well Across Cultures?
[06:31] - How Can You Avoid Survey Fatigue and Engage Respondents?