A: The Survey Research Center (SRC) provides survey services to the Penn State community; promotes and contributes to the science of survey research methodology; helps faculty and student investigators prepare effective proposals for external funding; and educates members of the Penn State community on best practices and emerging developments in the survey research field.

SRC’s project managers assist researchers in planning, implementing and tracking data collection processes. They provide advice about collecting full-service surveys such as: telephone interviews; data collecting utilizing smartphones, tablets and ambulatory devices; Web-based and mobile-enabled Web surveys; scannable pencil and paper forms distributed by mail or in person; face-to-face surveys in households or schools; and in-depth interviewing, focus groups and other qualitative data collection.

“Although we are currently focused on mobile survey applications, we are also continually working on new innovations that would provide the ability to collect real-time GPS data as well as features that enable real-time intervention functionality,’’ said Stephen Wilson, associate professor of psychology. “Mobile interventions create innovative and exciting possibilities that take research to the next level.’’

The SRC also offers, among other services, pre-proposal consultation and cost projection, adherence to IRB guidelines, data entry and transcription and biomarker collection.

“I’ve been quite satisfied with their work for three-and-a-half years and expect to continue working with them in the future,’’ said Sarah Chilenski of the Prevention Research Center. “They are efficient and a pleasure to work with. They have also found solutions to many challenges that have come up on a large collaborative project.’’

For more information, visit http://www.survey.psu.edu/ online.

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