Methodological Challenge: Addressing Bots in Online Research

Internet-based research has become useful for data collection, particularly because it reduces the time and resources required for recruitment. Although participant recruitment using social media is a scientifically and ethically sound methodology for many studies, this approach attracts fraudulent...

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Bibliographic Details
Published in:Journal of pediatric health care 2023-05, Vol.37 (3), p.328-332
Main Authors: Lawrence, Patricia R., Osborne, Melissa C., Sharma, Dhruvangi, Spratling, Regena, Calamaro, Christina J.
Format: Article
Language:English
Subjects:
Bots
Data Collection
Humans
Internet
methodology
online research
Patient Selection
recruitment
Social Media
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Summary:Internet-based research has become useful for data collection, particularly because it reduces the time and resources required for recruitment. Although participant recruitment using social media is a scientifically and ethically sound methodology for many studies, this approach attracts fraudulent participants and Internet bots which can pose serious threats to sample validity and data integrity. We present several case examples of research studies in which bots were encountered and the procedures used to address them. In addition, we provide an overview of strategies researchers can use to mitigate the risks associated with Internet-based recruitment methods.
ISSN:0891-5245
1532-656X
DOI:10.1016/j.pedhc.2022.12.006