Our Methods and Methodology
At Vocal Jharkhand, we conduct both surveys and individual polls to understand public opinion and amplify voices from Jharkhand and across India.
Polling is a powerful and effective way for people to register their opinions on issues that concern them. On the Vocal Jharkhand platform, every individual accessing the platform is given an equal opportunity to participate in our polls. In certain cases, we may also reach out to specific audiences to ensure representation or address hyperspecific research needs.
Survey & Polling Method
In our surveys and polls, we use what is known as the non-probability sampling method. This approach allows individuals to voluntarily participate in surveys and polls and is commonly referred to as online opt-in surveys.
To ensure that our sample reflects diverse sections of society, we employ a specific type of non-probability sampling called Quota Sampling. This involves setting predetermined quotas based on the demographic distribution of the target population.
These quotas are determined using an exhaustive list of criteria such as:
- Age
- Gender identity
- Socioeconomic class
- Religion
- Caste
- Employment status
Once these quotas are established, the sample is divided into distinct subgroups, known as strata. Stratification is done hierarchically — for example, beginning with gender identity, followed by age, occupation, and other relevant variables. In some cases, quotas may be based on combinations of multiple variables.
The sampling process concludes once the required quotas across all strata have been met.
Ensuring Data Quality
Quota sampling allows us to ethically and effectively build a diverse and inclusive dataset. To reduce bias, we apply statistical techniques such as:
- Oversampling
- Data weighting
- Resampling
- Data cleaning and validation
Whenever survey or poll results are published, we clearly disclose the methodology used to maintain transparency and credibility.
We are also in the process of building a large, diverse, and representative research panel. Panel members will be selected based on demographic and social criteria to further improve accuracy and representation.
Ethical Research Practices
At Vocal Jharkhand, we follow a comprehensive set of ethical guidelines while designing surveys, collecting data, analysing results, and disseminating findings. These guidelines ensure fairness, privacy protection, and responsible data use.
Qualitative Research & Notes
To strengthen our qualitative insights, we use Notes — our writing platform where individuals share lived experiences and opinions. Notes follows a structured format where writers respond to five guided questions, reducing barriers to participation.
We often include insights from Notes alongside survey and poll analysis to ensure that quantitative data is enriched with lived experiences, allowing us to take a holistic view of youth aspirations, social challenges, and public sentiment.
User-Generated Polls
Public opinion polling plays a vital role in building an active citizenry. Vocal Jharkhand provides a space where anyone can ask questions, raise issues, and seek public opinion — especially voices that are often missing from mainstream media.
India’s diversity makes it essential that young people from all backgrounds have the agency to participate in public discourse on issues such as unemployment, healthcare, education, climate change, and governance.
We acknowledge that user-generated polls may sometimes contain unintentional bias. To address this, we have implemented:
- A robust moderation and content review system
- Dedicated editorial oversight
- Machine learning-based pattern detection
- Random audits by trained staff
All user-generated polls are clearly marked as “Community-Created Polls”. Polls that violate our guidelines are removed, while creators of biased polls are guided on improving question design.
Promoting Responsible Polling
We actively educate users on creating clear, unbiased, and effective poll questions. These resources are shared during onboarding and through periodic communications. Users are encouraged to provide feedback through our Contact Us form.
Through these efforts, Vocal Jharkhand remains committed to data integrity, ethical research, and strengthening democratic participation.