Framing International Students as a Potentially Vulnerable Population to Increase Survey Response Rates

• In Event: Fairmont Roundtable Session Two
  In Roundtable Session: Educational Trends From International Data (Table 15)

Abstract

It has become difficult and expensive for researchers to achieve adequate survey response rates. Survey methodologists have explored a variety of factors that can increase response rates, but this qualitative study takes the novel approach of framing international students as a potentially vulnerable population and aims to understand how to increase response rates of international student experience surveys. I consider four barriers associated with vulnerable populations and research participation: labeling and identifying the population, mistrust of the research process, participation risks and benefits, and participant resource constraints. Preliminary themes suggest the intention of the survey should be evident to potential survey respondents, and participants should ideally have a personal connection within the campus organization sponsoring a survey.

Author

• Keanen McKinley, College of William & Mary
  Presenting Author