Survey Methodology
Statistical inference with non-probability survey samples

by Changbao WuNote 1

  • Release date: December 15, 2022
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Abstract

We provide a critical review and some extended discussions on theoretical and practical issues with analysis of non-probability survey samples. We attempt to present rigorous inferential frameworks and valid statistical procedures under commonly used assumptions, and address issues on the justification and verification of assumptions in practical applications. Some current methodological developments are showcased, and problems which require further investigation are mentioned. While the focus of the paper is on non-probability samples, the essential role of probability survey samples with rich and relevant information on auxiliary variables is highlighted.

Key Words: Auxiliary information; Bootstrap variance estimator; Calibration method; Doubly robust estimator; Estimating equations; Inverse probability weighting; Model-based prediction; Poststratification; Pseudo likelihood; Propensity score; Quota survey; Sensitivity analysis; Variance estimation.

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How to cite

Wu, C. (2022). Statistical inference with non-probability survey samples. Survey Methodology, Statistics Canada, Catalogue No. 12-001-X, Vol. 48, No. 2. Paper available at http://www.statcan.gc.ca/pub/12-001-x/2022002/article/00002-eng.htm.

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ISSN : 1492-0921

Editorial policy

Survey Methodology publishes articles dealing with various aspects of statistical development relevant to a statistical agency, such as design issues in the context of practical constraints, use of different data sources and collection techniques, total survey error, survey evaluation, research in survey methodology, time series analysis, seasonal adjustment, demographic studies, data integration, estimation and data analysis methods, and general survey systems development. The emphasis is placed on the development and evaluation of specific methodologies as applied to data collection or the data themselves. All papers will be refereed. However, the authors retain full responsibility for the contents of their papers and opinions expressed are not necessarily those of the Editorial Board or of Statistics Canada.

Submission of Manuscripts

Survey Methodology is published twice a year in electronic format. Authors are invited to submit their articles in English or French in electronic form, preferably in Word to the Editor, (statcan.smj-rte.statcan@canada.ca, Statistics Canada, 150 Tunney’s Pasture Driveway, Ottawa, Ontario, Canada, K1A 0T6). For formatting instructions, please see the guidelines provided in the journal and on the web site (www.statcan.gc.ca/SurveyMethodology).

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Copyright

Published by authority of the Minister responsible for Statistics Canada.

© His Majesty the King in Right of Canada as represented by the Minister of Industry, 2022

Use of this publication is governed by the Statistics Canada Open Licence Agreement.

Catalogue No. 12-001-X

Frequency: Semi-annual

Ottawa

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Table of contents

Abstract - Article main page
Section 1. Introduction
Section 2. Assumptions and inferential frameworks
Section 3. Model-based prediction approach
Section 4. Propensity scores based approach
Section 5. Quota surveys and poststratification
Section 6. Variance estimation
Section 7. Assumptions revisited
Section 8. Concluding remarks
Acknowledgements
References

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