mics6 TOOLS

Depending on the sample size and the time allocated to undertake a survey, required numbers of fieldwork teams receive training in the administration of customized questionnaires used in the survey, utilization of digital technology for data collection, as well as on fieldwork procedures. The MICS programme recommends at least four weeks of training, supported by a regional expert as needed.

Fieldwork is usually completed within two to four months. Each survey team has a supervisor who oversees day-to-day operations and troubleshoots problems. Interviewers conduct face-to-face interviews with eligible respondents using tablets. Fieldwork teams also include a measurer, who is equipped and trained to measure the weights and heights of children under 5, assisted by a second team member. If a Water Quality Testing Questionnaire is included, the measurer is also responsible for water quality testing and completion of the questionnaire. Fieldwork teams use a number of tools and guidelines for quality assurance purposes – these include questionnaire editing guidelines and detailed instructions for all fieldwork team members.

Data processing tools for editing and processing data are customized by survey teams to reflect the customization that other survey tools have undergone – such as the questionnaires. Much of this work is carried out during the MICS data processing workshop. 

Data from completed questionnaires are regularly shared with the centralised office. Field check tables are tabulated and continuous feedback is provided on the overall process and the progress of individual interviewers. 

For each topical area, computerised tabulation programs are provided. These are customised according to individual country questionnaires. Sample weights are added to the data and additional background variables – related to household characteristics, level of education, and wealth – are constructed. While finalizing the datasets, various techniques are employed to guarantee the anonymity of the data, to ensure the confidentiality of participating individuals and households.  

Soon after the tabulations are finalized, survey teams start work on reporting. Interpretation of the findings and drafting of the survey findings report are facilitated in a third MICS workshop – on data interpretation, further analysis and dissemination. Later, the draft survey findings report goes to national committees for review and finalization. The draft survey findings report is also reviewed by UNICEF at regional offices and at headquarters. 

Survey findings are disseminated beyond the launch of the survey findings report; through a variety of media, including pamphlets, CDs, infographics, workshops for journalists, websites and videos. Instructions and templates are made available to assist survey teams in this effort. Numerous examples from other countries show how strong dissemination efforts can achieve maximum impact in terms of advocacy and future action. Such examples are regularly shared on the MICS website and are also highlighted in the MICS newsletter.