Methodological Challenges for Panel Data Collection and Management in Japan

Abstract

     In this paper, I review some methodological challenges that arise when sociologists collect and manage panel data in Japan, and consider the ideal methods for them. I show three points of argument about data collection. First, you need to utilize retrospective methods even in panel surveys. Second, calendar interviewing facilitates accurate retrieval from memory. Third, computer assisted interview (CAI) is highly efficient for collecting panel data for many reasons. Next, I discuss two problems about management of panel data. First, I insist that data editing of panel data ought to follow the principles shown by Fellegi and Hout. Second, survey designers of panel data are responsible for constructing data with high usability. Finally, I insist that introduction of CAI is the most important point and it is the keystone which enables effective discussions on ideal collection and management of panel data in Japan.