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Strategies for Increasing Youth Participation in Longitudinal Survey Research: Lessons from a Pilot Study

Author

Listed:
  • Valentina Castillo Cifuentes

    (School of Environment Enterprise and Development, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada)

  • Ana Ferrer

    (School of Environment Enterprise and Development, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada)

  • Mike Ronchka

    (School of Environment Enterprise and Development, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada)

  • Ilona Dougherty

    (School of Environment Enterprise and Development, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada)

  • Amelia Clarke

    (School of Environment Enterprise and Development, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada)

  • Sana Khaliq

    (School of Environment Enterprise and Development, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada)

  • Eki Okungbowa

    (School of Environment Enterprise and Development, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada)

  • Ian Korovinsky

    (School of Environment Enterprise and Development, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada)

  • Mishika Khurana

    (School of Environment Enterprise and Development, Faculty of Environment, University of Waterloo, Waterloo, ON N2L 3G1, Canada)

Abstract

The pilot phase of a research study is essential for refining methodological and theoretical aspects before a full-scale launch. Using participatory action research with youth and sector partners, this study tested the design and implementation of a longitudinal research project, focusing on four key areas: recruitment strategies, survey design, incentive strategies, and participant engagement and retention. The study compares two recruitment messages, assessed survey clarity and completion rates, tested financial and non-financial incentives, and evaluated participants’ willingness to share contact information and LinkedIn profiles. Data were collected through surveys (n = 91) and focus groups (n = 11) with young people aged 15–29 from across Canada who completed an RBC Future Launch-funded program. Findings indicated that branding and messaging in recruitment emails influenced response rates. Despite concerns about survey length, 97% of participants completed it, with most finishing within 15 min. Among the incentives offered, a CAD 10 payment resulted in the highest response rate. Additionally, both the CAD 10 incentive and the LinkedIn Learning licenses increased participants’ willingness to share LinkedIn profiles. The pilot study provided valuable insights into optimizing recruitment, survey design, and incentive structures for a longitudinal study. These findings provide insights for improving participant engagement and retention in research studies, as well as a co-creation approach to research design.

Suggested Citation

  • Valentina Castillo Cifuentes & Ana Ferrer & Mike Ronchka & Ilona Dougherty & Amelia Clarke & Sana Khaliq & Eki Okungbowa & Ian Korovinsky & Mishika Khurana, 2025. "Strategies for Increasing Youth Participation in Longitudinal Survey Research: Lessons from a Pilot Study," World, MDPI, vol. 6(2), pages 1-15, June.
    • Handle: RePEc:gam:jworld:v:6:y:2025:i:2:p:73-:d:1669768
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    References listed on IDEAS

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    1. Leah Feor & Amelia Clarke & Ilona Dougherty, 2023. "Social Impact Measurement: A Systematic Literature Review and Future Research Directions," World, MDPI, vol. 4(4), pages 1-22, December.
    2. Eleanor Singer & Cong Ye, 2013. "The Use and Effects of Incentives in Surveys," The ANNALS of the American Academy of Political and Social Science, , vol. 645(1), pages 112-141, January.
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