Summary information

Study title

Longitudinal Sanitation Data From High-Frequency Phone Surveys Across Three Countries, 2020-2024

Creator

Lewis, A, Bangor Univerity
Bell, A, Boston University
Casas, A, Cranfield University
Kupiec-Teahan, B, Cranfield University
Mendoza Sanchez, J, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú
Anciano, F, University of the Western Cape
Barrington, D, The University of Western Australia
Dube, M, University of the Western Cape
Hutchings, P, University of Leeds
Karani, C, Meru University of Science and Technology
Llaxacondor, A, Sanima
López, H, Pontificia Universidad Católica del Perú
Mdee, A, University of Leeds
Ofori, A, Cranfield University
Riungu, J, Meru University of Science and Technology
Russel, K, University of Oregon
Parker, A, Cranfield University
Willcock, S, Bangor Univerity

Study number / PID

857073 (UKDA)

10.5255/UKDA-SN-857073 (DOI)

Data access

Restricted

Series

Not available

Abstract

This dataset relates to a study exploring off-grid sanitation practices in Kenya, Peru, and South Africa, with a focus on how various user demographics access and utilize sanitation facilities. The study contrasts container-based sanitation with alternative methods. Participants, acting as citizen researchers, gathered confidential information using a specialized mobile application. The primary objective was to uncover obstacles and challenges, with the intention of sharing insights with other municipalities interested in implementing container-based sanitation solutions for off-grid regions. Over the course of 12 months, participants received incentives for consistent involvement, following a micro-payment for micro-tasks model. Selection of participants was randomized, involving attendance at a training session and, if necessary, provision of a smartphone which they retained at the conclusion of the project. Weekly smartphone surveys were conducted in more than 300 households within informal settlements across the three countries throughout the project duration. These surveys aimed to capture daily routines, well-being, income levels, usage of infrastructure services, livelihood or environmental shocks and other socioeconomic factors on a weekly basis, contributing to more comprehensive analyses and informed decision-making processes. The smartphone-based methodology offered an efficient and adaptable means of data collection, facilitating broad coverage across diverse geographical areas and subjects, while promoting regular engagement. Open Data Kit (ODK) tools were utilized to support data collection in resource-limited settings with unreliable connectivity.To protect human health and the environment, sanitation systems must separate people from their excreta and treat it. This does not just involve technologies but other aspects like finance, government policies and human behaviours must be considered. Sewers and wastewater treatment plants can assist in...
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Methodology

Data collection period

01/07/2020 - 30/09/2024

Country

Peru, Kenya, South Africa

Time dimension

Not available

Analysis unit

Individual
Household

Universe

Not available

Sampling procedure

Not available

Kind of data

Numeric
Text

Data collection mode

High-frequency phone surveys were conducted using ODK software over a yearlong period. Participants received phone ownership, data, and talk time in exchange for completing weekly short questionnaires through a bespoke app. Push notifications were utilized to remind respondents of available tasks, indicating estimated completion time and potential point rewards. Participation was voluntary. Respondents selected tasks within the ODK app, and upon completion, encrypted surveys were stored on a cloud server. Weekly data downloads facilitated analysis of points and points were converted to local currency and distributed weekly to participants. Ethical approval was obtained from relevant bodies, and informed consent was secured from all participants. Compensation was based on the project budget and average cost of mobile phones. Gatekeepers, typically CBS organizations, selected participants who attended training workshops. Ongoing technical support was provided. Surveys were designed by sanitation experts, translated, and pilot tested in each country. Bonus points were awarded to mitigate survey fatigue. Skip logic was employed for efficiency, with skipped questions left blank. Surveys were converted to ODK format, allowing for language customization and training flexibility. The survey schedule included weekly tasks with a one-week expiration, supplemented by monthly tasks. Detailed task information is available in the repository.

Funding information

Grant number

ES/T007877/1

Access

Publisher

UK Data Service

Publication year

2024

Terms of data access

The Data Collection is available for download to users registered with the UK Data Service.

Related publications

Not available