JMIR Publications

ABSTRACT

While traditional methods of data collection in naturalistic settings can shed light on constructs of interest to researchers, advances in sensor-based technology allow researchers to capture continuous physiological and behavioral data to provide a more comprehensive understanding of the constructs that are examined in a dynamic healthcare setting. This paper gives examples for implementing technology-facilitated approaches and provides the following recommendations for conducting such longitudinal, sensor-based research, with both environmental and wearable sensors in a healthcare setting: pilot test sensors and software early and often; build trust with key stakeholders and with potential participants who may be wary of sensor-based data collection and concerned about privacy; generate excitement for novel, new technology during recruitment; monitor incoming sensor data to troubleshoot sensor issues; and consider the logistical constraints of sensor-based research. The paper describes how these recommendations were successfully implemented by providing examples from a large-scale, longitudinal, sensor-based study of hospital employees at large hospital in California. The knowledge gained from this paper may be helpful to researchers interested in obtaining dynamic, longitudinal sensor data from both wearable and environmental sensors in a healthcare setting (e.g., a hospital) to obtain a more comprehensive understanding of constructs of interest in an ecologically valid, secure, and efficient way.