Qualitative Research for the Survey of Earned Doctorates (SED)

Attachment 5: Phone Script for Participant Recruitment
Hello,
This is [name] at NORC at the University of Chicago. I’m calling to follow up on the email we
sent about participating in an online [focus group/one-on-one interview] on the topic of adding a
graduate school experience section to the Survey of Earned Doctorates (SED).
Did you receive this email?
[READ IF NECESSARY] NORC is assisting the National Science Foundation (NSF) in
conducting research on the potential addition of a module on graduate school experiences (GSE)
to the Survey of Earned Doctorates (SED). Your participation in [a focus group/an interview]
would be very valuable in helping NSF understand the uses and value GSE data might have for
institutions/organizations such as yours.
The discussion will cover a range of topics, such as the following:
•
•
•
•
•

Topics that would be useful to include in a GSE module
Issues with the potential identifiability of the GSE data *
Usefulness of information if data were presented in aggregate form
Potential uses of GSE data at your institution/organization
If your institution already fields a GSE exit survey, usefulness of SED GSE data and
what the SED GSE would need to include for it to be of use *

[* THESE TOPICS ARE FOR DEANS AND GRADUATE DEPARTMENT HEADS]
As the [title/position at institution/foundation], your voice would add an important perspective to
this process. [** For data users only: You will receive $40 as a token of appreciation for your
participation in this research project. **]
Would you be interested in participating in a [focus group/one-on-one interview]?
REFER TO FAQ LIST TO ANSWER RESPONDENT QUESTIONS.
[IF YES] Great. Before I get to scheduling, I’d like to ask you a few brief questions to get some
background on your organization’s use of the SED.
GO TO SCREENER
[IF NO] Is there any additional information I could provide you to make it possible for you to
participate? [ADDRESS ANY RESPONDENT QUESTIONS OR CONCERNS. IF
RESPONDENT SAYS NO]: Thank you for taking the time to speak with me today.

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