What is the Difference Between Cohort and Panel Study?

Cohort and panel studies are both longitudinal research designs that involve collecting data from the same individuals over time. However, there are key differences between the two designs:

1. Population under study: Cohort studies aim to follow a specific population defined by geography and time, such as all newborns within a particular week or month. Panel studies, on the other hand, involve sampling a cross-section of individuals at specific intervals for an extended period.
2. Analytical strategies: Cohort studies focus on explaining the effect of age on the life course. Panel studies have more generic aims, monitoring both change and taking a cross-sectional snapshot of the entire population. A panel study can be thought of as a combination of a series of cohort studies.
3. Participants: In panel studies, the same individuals are used throughout the study, whereas cohort studies may follow different groups of individuals who share a common characteristic.

In summary, cohort studies are more focused on understanding the effect of age on the life course and usually follow a specific population defined by geography and time. Panel studies are more generic, aiming to monitor change and take cross-sectional snapshots of the entire population, using the same individuals throughout the study.

Comparative Table: Cohort vs Panel Study

Here is a table comparing the differences between cohort and panel studies:

In summary, a cohort study follows a specific group of people who share a common characteristic, while a panel study involves the same participants being used throughout the study. Cohort studies are generally less difficult and costly to administer compared to panel studies, which require keeping track of participants and ensuring their involvement in each measurement.