The Online Panel

Who is the Online Panel?

The Online Panel is a special group of participants comprised of adults from all over the United States and the world. Panelists participate in online survey studies run by Columbia University researchers in exchange for payment or entrance into a lottery for a larger cash prize. The Online Panel is important to researchers who seek insight from a broader group of people than an undergraduate population can offer. As of 2012, there are over 2,200 panelists.

How does it work?

Our scholarship relies on accurate input from our participants. In return for participation, the lab’s researchers typically offer Amazon gift cards as compensation, sent within two weeks of subject participation. On average, studies pay approximately $16/hour! In some cases, researchers offer other or additional forms of compensation, such as entry in a lottery for a gift card of greater value.

People who sign up for our panel receive email invitations to participate in surveys for which they qualify*. These notices describe the survey title, approximate duration, and payment for the study. Participation is always optional and panelists are free to take part in as many or as few surveys as they would like.

*Some surveys may target a specific population, such as females or people working full-time.

All of our survey studies are approved by the Columbia University Institutional Review Board (IRB), a group dedicated to protecting research participants’ rights and safety. At the beginning of each study, participants are given detailed information about the study and can decide to whether or not to take part.

How do I join?

If you’re interested in joining the Online Panel, we welcome you to register now. Registering for the online panel means that you will receive invitations to participate in surveys at your choosing. You can participate in as many (or as few) surveys as you like, and you can unsubscribe at any time.

From our lab

We hope you’ll consider being part of our research community. Our scholarship depends on your input. So far, thousands of people have shared their perspectives with us. We hope you might join us and share your views as well.