ACASI (audio computer-assisted self-interviewing) has been documented as an effective tool in the US for obtaining higher prevalence of self-reported behaviors, particularly those associated with HIV transmission. Yet this tool, until recently, has not been tested systematically in developing countries.
For the system to work effectively, the translation must follow a multi-step, iterative process and incorporate local colloquialisms. The process must also ensure that the meaning and intent of each question within the instrument is maintained. Because ACASI is both audio and visual, translation includes both a screen version of the questionnaire and an audio text. Pre-testing the instrument ensures that users can understand the questions and are able to enter a categorical (by touching a colored box on the screen) or numerical response (by touching a number pad on the screen). In addition, a multilingual ACASI system must be flexible enough to deal with non-Roman alphabets, such as Cyrillic, Chinese, and Tamil.
Field testing of the ACASI system proved to be culturally acceptable in six international settings. Participants also indicated strong preference for ACASI over a face-to-face interview for a number of reasons, including greater privacy, honesty, and preferences for answering questions about sexual and other sensitive behaviors. Difficulties arose regarding literal translations, numeracy, hybrid languages, and lack of honesty in cultures where confidentiality is not the norm. Ongoing field testing continues to address these issues, with the expectation that the high-quality data obtained with ACASI in the US will also be obtained in other countries.
Learning Objectives:
Keywords: Survey, Computer-Assisted
Presenting author's disclosure statement:
Organization/institution whose products or services will be discussed: None
I have a significant financial interest/arrangement or affiliation with any organization/institution whose products or services are being discussed in this session.
Relationship: Grant from the National Institute of Mental Health