Methodological Advancements In Surveying Complex, Unfamiliar, or Future Issues: From Public Opinions to Acceptance Research

Abstract Submissions Closed

RC33 Logic and Methodology (host committee)

Language: English

Session Type: Oral

Pioneering decisions require a solid understanding of public acceptance of future-oriented technologies, innovative processes, and emerging social issues. However, measuring acceptance of complex, unfamiliar, or future-oriented topics poses significant methodological challenges that undermine measurement validity in particular (e.g., by eliciting pseudo-opinions or item nonresponse).

This session focuses on the intersection of methodology and acceptance research. We explore how experimental designs, innovative data collection, and qualitative approaches can improve the measurement and representation quality of preferences for novel or abstract acceptance objects.

We welcome progressive theoretical, conceptual, and empirical contributions that advance the field of acceptance research. Topics include, among others:

  • Conceptualization & Operationalization: Advancements in theoretical definitions of acceptance and the operationalization of valid survey instruments for capturing acceptance.
  • Experimental Survey Designs: Utilizing survey experiments, discrete choice experiments, and factorial surveys to validly measure preferences and trade-offs.
  • Qualitative & Mixed-Methods Approaches: Using qualitative methods (e.g., cognitive interviewing, focus groups) or mixed-methods to explore the formation of opinions on unfamiliar topics and refine quantitative instruments or for envisioning future acceptance.
  • Tackling Pseudo-Opinions & Non-Response: Strategies to reduce non-opinions and cognitive overload when respondents lack pre-existing knowledge.
  • Leveraging Para Data & Survey Quality: Using para data (e.g., response times) or mixed-mode designs to monitor respondent motivation and minimize processing errors or survey bias.

    By linking advanced survey tools and qualitative insights with the demands of acceptance research, this session fosters a rigorous discussion on validly measuring preferences for the world of tomorrow.

    Session Organizers:
    Hawal SHAMON, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Germany, h.shamon@fz-juelich.de
    Wingen ANDREA, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Germany, a.wingen@fz-juelich.de
    Simon BRAUNER, Forschungszentrum Jülich, Germany, s.brauner@fz-juelich.de
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