Using Computer-Assisted Self-Interviewing (CASI) systems to obtain the views of looked after children: A pilot study

Abstract

An increasing number of local authorities are introducing Computer-Assisted Self-Interviewing (CASI) systems. Self-complete measures such as those incorporated into CASI systems may encourage a greater level of self-disclosure from young people. Viewpoint CASI systems have been used successfully to gather sensitive information from young people as they may be seen to be less threatening than face-to-face interviews. The aim of this small-scale study was to pilot the use of Viewpoint within a local authority to access the views of looked after children about their life experiences and emotional well-being, and to compare it with traditional paper and pencil methods. Eight young people agreed to take part in the study; five completed the study using Viewpoint and three used the paper and pencil method. While the sample in this exploratory study is very small, limiting the generalisation of findings, the results, when taken together with other research on the efficiency of CASI techniques, suggest that young people may be more likely to complete sensitive questionnaires administered using computers than they are using paper and pencil methods, and that motivation for completion of computer-based surveys may be further increased if game-breaks are used and questionnaire length kept to a minimum.