Inter-rater and test-retest reliability: Methods and results for the neighborhood observational checklist

Shannon N. Zenk, Amy J. Schulz, Graciela Mentz, James S. House, Clarence C. Gravlee, Patricia Y. Miranda, Patricia Miller, Srimathi Kannan

Research output: Contribution to journalArticlepeer-review

59 Scopus citations

Abstract

The popularity of direct or systematic social observation as a method to evaluate the mechanisms by which neighborhood environments impact health and contribute to health disparities is growing. The development of measures with adequate inter-rater and test-retest reliability is essential for this research. In this paper, based on our experiences conducting direct observation of neighborhoods in Detroit, MI, we describe strategies to promote high inter-rater and test-retest reliability and methods to evaluate reliability. We then present the results and discuss implications for future research efforts using direct observation in four areas: methods to evaluate reliability, instrument content and design, observer training, and data collection.

Original languageEnglish (US)
Pages (from-to)452-465
Number of pages14
JournalHealth and Place
Volume13
Issue number2
DOIs
StatePublished - Jun 2007

All Science Journal Classification (ASJC) codes

  • Health(social science)
  • Sociology and Political Science
  • Life-span and Life-course Studies

Fingerprint

Dive into the research topics of 'Inter-rater and test-retest reliability: Methods and results for the neighborhood observational checklist'. Together they form a unique fingerprint.

Cite this