Research

Economics | Education | Health | Information Technology | Media | Social/Political

The Tomás Rivera Policy Institute (TRPI) conducts rigorous, policy-relevant research that has a direct impact on Latino communities in the United States. TRPI staff is experienced in data collection and analysis, field observation, in-depth interviewing, focus group and survey methodologies. TRPI has a successful history of directing telephone, mailed, and in-person opinion surveys at all geographic levels. In particular, TRPI has pioneered efforts to better conduct surveys with diverse Latino communities with proven procedures for questionnaire construction and sample design. Using the most appropriate statistical modeling and analysis technique, the experienced TRPI research staff has produced results directly relevant to the issues in question.

TRPI also has considerable experience and knowledge working with qualitative studies. Our ability to conduct focus groups with Spanish-dominant, bilingual, and English-dominant Latinos allows us to create a comprehensive picture of segments of diverse Latino populations across the nation. Furthermore, we are experienced in exploring country of origin and length of residency differences among Latino immigrants. This experience gives us a greater ability and flexibility in designing appropriate studies and analyzing and interpreting data to capture distinct ethnic group preferences and attitudes. Our reports reflect this expertise, with findings placed in the context of language and cultural issues to reflect the unique perspectives of Latino populations.

The Latino community is a diverse body that often cannot be defined in generalizations. Knowing this, the Tomás Rivera Policy Institute strives to take innovative approaches to its research, addressing a wide range of topics. To this end, TRPI's research is broad-based, providing essential information on the effects of policy decisions, changing demographics and the progress of the integration of Latinos across the nation. TRPI has positioned itself to continue to meet the growing demands and needs of the complex and dynamic Latino community with its focus on research.