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NORC at the University Chicago

About

Advancing the field of probability-based panel design and methodology.

The Center for Panel Survey Sciences focuses on researching and developing best practices in probability-based panel surveys.

While panel surveys offer clear and numerous benefits, the field still wrestles with a wide range of challenges, including attrition, conditioning, mode effects, nonresponse, and more. Our center’s in-depth research explores novel solutions and elucidates optimal methods and approaches for next-generation probability-based panel surveys.

The center provides expertise in building a range of panels, from those of the general population to highly specialized panels for specific demographic groups, such as young adults, Asian American and Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities, STEM professionals, or individuals aged 50 and older. We also share insights into a range of potential error sources (coverage, sampling, nonresponse, measurement, and processing) that can occur during the panel and survey lifecycle. 

With NORC’s AmeriSpeak®, the center has a rich data source to execute a range of research projects. The center’s rich and ambitious research program is driven by a team of NORC experts with deep experience in building, maintaining, and using probability-based panels.

Center Leads

David Dutwin
Senior Vice President, AmeriSpeak Chief Scientist & Center Director

Ipek Bilgen
Principal Research Methodologist & Center Deputy Director

Discover Our Research

In addition to our peer-reviewed articles and conference presentations, the center regularly provides accessible, practical briefs to support the field.

The Survey Surge: Balancing Quantity with Quality in Research 

Expert View

Survey research has become one of the most vital intelligence tools of the 21st century, but like many things, you get what you pay for. NORC's David Dutwin discusses how to balance quantity with quality.
Headshot of David Dutwin

When the Federal Government Needs Data Fast, Look to Panel Surveys

Research Brief

This brief shares how probability-based panels can help meet the need for timely federal data.
Close up of hand writing on paper

Recent Briefs

View All Research Briefs

Journal Articles, White Papers, & Presentations

View All of Our Research

Our Experts

Center staff members regularly present at conferences and publish peer-reviewed articles, conference presentations, and white papers.

Our Advisory Board

The Center includes internationally recognized thought leaders in panel research.

Annelies Blom
University of Bremen, Germany

Nancy Brigham
Dynata

Trent D. Buskirk
Bowling Green State University

Mario Callegaro
Google

LinChiat Chang
Independent Consultant

Joshua D. Clinton
Vanderbilt University

Carina Cornesse
German Institute for Economic Research

Ricardo Gonzalez
Universidad Adolfo Ibáñez

Carol Sue Haney
Qualtrics

D. Sunshine Hillygus
Duke University

Josh Pasek
University of Michigan

Laura Wronski
Momentive

Weiyu Zhang
National University of Singapore

Our Expertise

Our Expertise

Our researchers apply their knowledge and experience to a wide-range of topics in panel survey science, spanning diverse populations and methodologies.


Survey Methods Research:

  • Sample frame construction
  • Panelist sampling techniques
  • Recruitment strategy development
  • Post-recruitment empanelment processes
  • Panelist retention methods
  • Engagement and response rate improvement

 

Panel Types:

  • General population
  • Young adults
  • Asian American, Native Hawaiian/Pacific Islander (AANHPI) communities
  • STEM professionals
  • Individuals aged 50+

 

Methodological Approaches:

  • Nonresponse follow-up recruitment strategies
  • Attention-check and trap question implementation
  • Data-quality assurance techniques
  • Emerging technologies in panel surveys
  • Inclusion of non-internet users in surveys