How do Portable People Meters measure audience engagement?

Portable People Meters measure audience engagement primarily by tracking motion and detecting signals. This device is worn by participants and captures audio signals from radio and television broadcasts that the wearer is exposed to throughout the day. By analyzing the frequency and duration of these signals, the meters provide a detailed account of what content listeners are engaged with in real time.

This method is more effective than surveys or diaries because it provides direct, objective data rather than relying on self-reported information, which can be subject to memory bias or inaccuracies. As a result, the data collected through Portable People Meters can offer insights into actual engagement patterns and preferences of audiences.