DIARY CODING SYSTEM
The diary coding system used for the 2006 Time Use Survey was similar to the diary processing system used for the 1997 survey.
The data entry system contained a look-up list of activities and detailed category screens to make it easier for consistency in coding. There were also some interactive range and logical edits. These detected unacceptable values and ensured that certain fields were appropriately coded. This type of edit, however, could not ensure that activities were coded accurately or that identifying information was correctly entered. The main quality control measures for diary information were training of coding staff, consultation and documentation to establish consistent interpretations, and audits on coding and keying.
A quality control system was devised to ensure that coding staff were accurately following the rules laid down in the comprehensive set of coding documentation. As the quality control system involved the duplication of diaries by different coding staff, it was easy to check that coding was consistent.
Diary information was checked by allocating a certain proportion of a coder's diaries to be recoded by another coder. Differences between the coders' data were compared and feedback was provided to each coder on a regular basis to help improve the quality of their work and improve their familiarity with the coding rules. Only the more accurate data were used towards the final output. Initially 100% checking was carried out, diminishing as reliability was demonstrated.
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