Studying Science Inequities: How to Use Surveys to Study Diverse Populations

19 Pages Posted: 11 Oct 2021

See all articles by James N. Druckman

James N. Druckman

University of Rochester - Department of Political Science; Northwestern University - Department of Political Science

Robin Bayes

Northwestern University

Alauna C. Safarpour

Harvard University

Date Written: September 5, 2021

Abstract

Inequities in science have long been documented in the United States. Particular groups such as low income, non-White people, and indigenous people fare worse when it comes to healthcare, infectious diseases, climate change, and access to technology. These types of inequities can be partially addressed with targeted interventions aimed at facilitating access to scientific information. Doing so requires knowledge about what different groups think when it comes to relevant scientific topics. Yet, most data collections on science-based issues do not include enough respondents from these populations. We discuss this gap and offer an overview of pertinent sampling and administrative considerations in studying underserved populations. A sustained effort to study diverse populations can help address extant inequities.

Keywords: science communication, survey methods, hard to reach populations

Suggested Citation

Druckman, James N. and Bayes, Robin and Safarpour, Alauna C., Studying Science Inequities: How to Use Surveys to Study Diverse Populations (September 5, 2021). Available at SSRN: https://ssrn.com/abstract=3917898 or http://dx.doi.org/10.2139/ssrn.3917898

James N. Druckman (Contact Author)

University of Rochester - Department of Political Science ( email )

Rochester, NY 14627
United States

Northwestern University - Department of Political Science ( email )

601 University Place (Scott Hall)
Evanston, IL 60201
United States
847-491-7450 (Phone)

Robin Bayes

Northwestern University

2001 Sheridan Road
Evanston, IL 60208
United States

Alauna C. Safarpour

Harvard University

1875 Cambridge Street
Cambridge, MA 02138
United States

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