DEVELOPMENT OF A VOTING ADVICE APPLICATION (VAA) SYSTEM

8/22/2019 DEVELOPMENT OF A VOTING ADVICE APPLICATION (VAA) SYSTEM

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DEVELOPMENT OF A VOTING ADVICE APPLICATION (VAA)

SYSTEM

___________________________

A Thesis

Presented to the

Faculty of the College of Computer Studies

Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University

___________________________

In partial fulfillment of the

Requirements for the Degree

Bachelor in Science of Information Technology

___________________________

By

Legamia, Don Daniel D.

Ortanez, Rolly O.

Panopio, Charles R.

April 2013


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DON HONORIO VENTURA TECHNOLOGICAL STATE UNIVERSITY

APPROVAL SHEET

This thesis entitled DEVELOPMENT OF A VOTING ADVICE APPLICATION

(VAA) SYSTEM, prepared and submitted by Don Daniel D. Legamia, Rolly O.

Ortanez and Charles B. Panopio, in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the

Degree Bachelor of Science in Information Technology, has been examined and found

in order and hereby recommended for acceptance and approval for the ORAL

EXAMINATION.

BENIGNO P. LEGAMIA, JR. Ph.D JOEL T. YAMBAO

Adviser Adviser

THESIS COMMITTEE

JULIETA M. UMALI, MSITChairman

ANICIA L. FERRER, MSITCo-Chairman

PANEL OF EXAMINERS

Approved by the committee on Oral Examination with a grade of _________ on

____________________,

ALZIEN S. MALONZO

Chairman

RUBY ROSE N. PUNO HILENE E. HERNANDEZMember Member

Accept and approved in partial fulfillment of the requirements for the Degree of Bachelor

of Science in Information Technology.

JULIETA M. UMALI, MSITThesis Chairman

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ACKNOWLEDGEMENT

For the completion of this study, we gratefully acknowledge with utmost

gratefulness and earnestness the support, guidance, cooperation and inspiration extended

by the ensuing persons:

To Alzien S. Malonzo, Chairman of Panel of Examiners and his members,

namely: Ruby Rose N. Puno and Hilene E. Hernandez for their venerated and expert

comments that greatly enhanced this study;

To Mr. Joel T. Yambao and Dr. Benigno P. Legamia, Jr., our advisers for their

untiring supports and guidance;

To Ms. Julieta M. Umali and Ms. Anicia L. Ferrer, Thesis Committee Chairman

and co-Chairman, respectively for their valuable pieces of advice and constant

encouragement throughout the course of this thesis.

To our dear teachers for imparting their knowledge and great contribution to our

intellectual development;

To our parents, Dr. and Mrs. Benigno P. Legamia, Jr,Mr. and Mrs.Rainier C.

Panopio, and Mrs.Ronald O. Ortanez, who are always around 24/7 to inspire, pray,

understand and encourage us to achieve our goals in life;

Finally, to the Lord Almighty, true God and Redeemer of the World, for his

spiritual blessings.

The Proponents:

Legamia, Don Daniel D.

Ortanez, Rolly O.

Panopio, Charles R.

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ABSTRACT

Students are having hard time choosing candidates to vote for during the scheduled

annual election of University Student Council (USC) officers. This problem can be

attributed to lack of knowledge or information about the candidates personal attributes

and platform of government. This prompted the proponents to conduct a technology

generated research which aimed to design, develop and implement an online system

called Voting Advice Application that will help voters engage in a variety of online

political activities, including: acquiring and sharing political information; participating in

online discussions of political issues; mobilizing others to vote and participate in offline

activities.

In this study, the proponents employed varied means of getting information

which include internet surfing and reading of available references in the library. They

also gathered data by way of administering survey instruments to selected students across

all colleges of the Don Honorio Ventura Technological State University (DHVTSU) to

determine the effectiveness and reliability of the existing poll system made use of during

the exercise of the annual election of USC officers.

Descriptive method of research was used for this study where data analyzed yielded

to the need for designing the Voting Advice Application System which will be of great

help for the entire students voting population.

Lastly, the proposed system was developed with the use of Dreamweaver for the

web-based part and MySQL for the database.

.

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TABLE OF CONTENTS

CONTENTS

TITLE PAGE . i

APPROVAL SHEET . ii

ACKNOWLEDGEMENT . iii

ABSTRACT . iv

TABLE OF CONTENTS . v

LIST OF TABLES . viii

LIST OF FIGURES . ix

Chapter Page

1. THE PROBLEM AND REVIEW OF RELATED

LITERATURE............. 1

Introduction .............. 1

1.2 Background of the Study .... 3

1.3 Review of Related Literature 4

1.3.1 Foreign Literature 4

1.3.2 Local Literature 8

1.4 Conceptual Framework . 10

1.5 Statement of the Problem . 11

1.5.1 General Problem... 11

1.5.2Specific Problems .... 12

1.6 Objectives of the Study .........12

1.6.1 General Objective .... 12

1.6.2 Specific Objectives ... 13

1.7 Assumptions .. 13

1.8 Significance of the Study . 14

1.8.1 Economic Significance . 14

1.8.2 Educational Significance . 14

1.8.3 Technological Significance .. 14

1.8.4 Social Significance ... 15

1.9 Scope and Delimitations .. 15

1.10 Operational Definition of Terms.. 16

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2. METHODOLOGY ... 17

2.1 Type of Research .. 17

2.2 Respondents of the Study . 17

2.3 Sampling Technique and Procedures.18

2.4 Research Instruments ....18

2.4.1 Questionnaires.18

2.4.2 Internet Research.18

2.4.3 Library Research ...19

2.4.4 Internet Research.19

2.5 Administration of the Instrument .. 19

2.6 Analysis of Data..19

2.7 Methods Used in Developing the System...19

2.7.1 Planning Phase ..19

2.7.2 Analysis Phase..20

2.7.3 Design Phase .20

2.7.4 Implementation Phase . 20

2.7.5 Operation and Support Phase ...20

2.8 Methods Used for System Evaluation .. 21

2.8.1 Economic Feasibility ... 21

2.8.2 Operational Feasibility.. 21

2.8.3 Technical Feasibility .... 21

2.9 Statistical Treatment of Data .... 22

3. RESULT AND DISCUSSION ..... 26

3.1 Assessment of the Existing System .. 26

3.2 Attitude of the Customers towards the

Existing System ...... 30

3.3 Existing System Capability . 30

3.4 System Improvement Suggestions ... 30

3.5 Technological Preparedness of the Company ... 31

3.5.1 Problem Statement . 31

3.5.2 Data Requirements .. 32

3.5.3 Transaction Requirements . 32

3.5.4 Requirement Specification. 32

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4. DESIGN OF THE PROPOSED SYSTEM .. 33

4.1 ENTITY-RELATIONSHIP DIAGRAM (ERD) . 33

4.1.1 Initial ERD of the Proposed System .. 33

4.1.2 Final ERD of the Proposed System .. 34

4.2 DATA FLOW DIAGRAM (DFD) . 34

4.2.1 Data Flow Diagram of the Existing System. 34

4.2.2 Data Flow Diagram of the Proposed System..

4.3 Hardware and Software Specification

4.4 System Architecture

4.5 Prototype Process

4.6 Cost and Benefit Analysis

5. SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMEMENDATIONS. 67

5.1 Summary . 67

5.2 Conclusions...... 69

5.3 Recommendations.... 70

REFERENCES

APPENDICES

CURRICULUM VITAE

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APPENDICES

Appendix A Gantt Chart

Appendix B Letters

Appendix C Organizational Chart

Appendix D Interview Guide Questions

Appendix E Questionnaires

Appendix F Evaluation Form

Appendix G DFD and ERD Symbols

Appendix H User Manual

Appendix I Sample Source Code

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LIST OF TABLES

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LIST OF FIGURES

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Chapter 1

THE PROBLEM AND A REVIEW RELATED LITERATURE

Introduction

Every year, the students of the Don Honorio Ventura Technological State

University (DHVTSU) convene to exercise their right to vote for their representatives in

the University Students Council (USC). Said organization of students is believed to be a

very powerful structure and a potent voice that protects and takes care of the general

welfare of studentry. In factuality, elected USC President will automatically occupy one

seat in the Board of Regents (BOR) as Student Regent and a member of the University

Administrative Council bringing along with him collective issues and concerns that

affects his members.

With the critical tasks and responsibilities to be entrusted onto the shoulder of

USC officers, a voter must be properly informed of the candidates background,

personality and platform of government as basis for making the best choice comes

election day.

As a practice, few months before the scheduled election, candidates will be very

busy with their usual way of selling themselves to the electorates. Campaigning is a

critical component of any type of election, be it school poll or higher level political

elections where the candidates attempt to win the hearts or alter the decisions of the

students so they will be supported and consequently gets higher polls and wins elections.

Campaigning comes in varied forms and styles depending on the available

resources of the candidates, like financial, manpower, political machinery and

connections, among others. It can be through the use of expensive mass media like the

TV or radio advertisement, broadsheets, cable TV, and the like. Others use tarpaulins,

streamers, flyers, stickers, and other low-cost personalized items bearing their pictures

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Nevertheless with the present technologies at hand, considered most popular

medium for campaigning activities is the use of cell phones and the Internet. Through the

existing Web applications, individuals are able to engage in a variety of online political

activities, including acquiring and sharing political information, participating in onlinediscussions of political issues, mobilizing others to vote wisely, participating in offline

activities, as well as donating to political campaigns and organizations.

Students, regardless of age and levels, are very much inclined in online system to

get information about any topic of their interest. One hundred percent of DHVTSU

students are believed to be computer literates and enjoy the benefits of internet services to

facilitate their research undertakings and getting closer and updated with other people and

friends around the world and become apprised on the trends and issues affecting their

lives, their families and the country as well. Therefore, introduction of an online system

called Voting Advice Application will definitely be acceptable to them and eventually

help them become actively involved in the university electoral process.

The Voting Advice Application System to be introduced will match the voter to

the party or candidate based on his answered questions onpreferred candidates platform

of government. Voting advice will then appear consisting of a list of candidates whose

platform closely match the voters choice. This system will undoubtedly create new and

better alternative way of holding and managing electoral process that will benefit the

entire students of DHVTSU.

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1.2 Background of the Study

The use of internet greatly influenced the learning and lifestyles of peoples from

all walks of life, most especially the students, around the world. It spurred economic

growth through the use of e-commerce, it improves communication system making one

closer to the whole world, enhanced instruction through uploaded scholarly research

papers, and supplemented the limited books and other reference materials available in the

university library making it lighter for students to do research works, among others.

Taking advantage of this popular online technology among the students of

DHVTSU, development and introduction of a localized system of Voting Advice

Application will be a welcome treat for them and for the university as well, particularly

the Office of Students Affairs (OSA) being responsible for conducting, managing and

supervising electoral process during the annual election of students council members.

At present, the existing electoral system is still wanting for more effective method

that will make the entire studentry actively involved in the election process especially in

gaining information about the candidates blueprint of government as basis for choosing

the most qualified leaders. Traditional system of campaigning is still being used by the

candidates, like conducting classroom presentation of selves and plans, distributing cheap

flyers and posting campaign posters in conspicuous or strategic areas within the

university campus. These strategies are found not so effective since limited time and

opportunity are given to voters for them to know the candidates well. This often results

to uneducated voting where candidates belonging to a bigger college win the political

race over the most qualified who failed to sell himself and his vision for the students due

to limited time and strategies.

The Voting Advice Application will address this problem. This online tool or

system will help voters gain political information and make decisions. It will influence

the way voters think about politics and their electoral choice. It will be of great help for

the OSA to ensure higher level and more educated involvement of students in the

university electoral process.

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1.3 Related Literature

This part contains reviewed related literature which provide the researchers with

a theoretical background of information on what is already known on the area of interest

and what still needs to be done for the research undertaking.

1.3.1 Foreign Literature

Research about Voting Advice Application (VAA) focused on the effects of this

tool on voting behavior resorts to general debates and trends within electoral studies. The

erosion of traditional social cleavages and the resulting weakening of long-established

partisan alignments have resulted in a progressive individualization of vote choices

implying an increased likelihood to cast a vote based primarily on issue preferences.

Indeed, previous VAA research has found that a significant proportion of VAA users are

motivated to go to the elections and willing to move their vote in accordance with the

advice obtained (Ladner et al., 2010; Marschall and Schmidt, 2010; Ruusuvirta and

Rosema, 2009; Walgrave et al., 2008). However, the findings presented in these studies

diverge dramatically in their estimates of the importance of VAAs to users.

The significant differences in the findings regarding VAA effects on voter

turnout and electoral choice might be based on the respective political context in which

the VAAs were applied, but could also be explained by the fact that the empirical VAA

research so far has not followed common standards. A lack of standardization in the field

to date means that the items used to elicit estimates of VAAs influence vary substantially

across national case studies. As a result, estimates of percentages of users who feel that

their participation in the election as well as their eventual decision was influenced by

their visit to a VAA range from a low of 1 percent in the Belgian case to a high of 67

percent in the Swiss case ( Cedroni and Garzia, 2010).

A further complication stems from the inherent endogeneity within users

subjective evaluations of the influence exerted by VAA-usage. The great majority of

these studies rely on post-test questionnaires administered to users right after playing the

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test. Modeling VAA effects based on these sources, however, can lead to severe biases in

terms of estimated individual level effects. The individuals of these samples have not

only self-selected themselves to becoming VAA users but they have also deliberately

decided to take part in the post-test survey. As a result, chances are that they might endup with a sample of highly enthusiastic and convinced VAA users who report different

effects of the tool on their electoral behavior than if they had the chance to survey a

representative sample of voters using VAAs.

Being subject to a heavy self-selection bias, this kind of data can overestimate to

a substantial extent the actual effect exerted by VAA-usage on the participation in

elections and the voting decision. As Walgrave et al. (2008) demonstrated, the reported

intention in post-test surveys to change vote choice in accordance with the VAA does not

always match with actual changes in voting behavior.

Voting Advice Applications have turned into a widespread feature of electoral

campaigns in Europe, attracting a growing interest from citizens. VAAs help users

casting a vote by comparing their policy preferences on major issues with the

programmatic stands of political parties or candidates on these policies. The mechanism

employed is rather straightforward: the respondents fill in a web-questionnaire marking

their position on a range of policies; after comparing the users profile with that of each

party, the application produces a result in the form of a rank-ordered list, at the top of

which stands the party/candidate closest to the users policy preferences.

According to Walgrave et al. (2008), in 2007 there was (at least) one Voting Advice

Application running in 15 countries out of the 22 they surveyed. In some countries,

VAAs have developed into outstandingly popular tools. As far as data were providedbythe organizations offering VAAs, the Dutch Stemwijzer in the national elections of

2006 can be considered the most successful implementation of a VAA so far, which

taken by the numbers of its usages (e.g., 4.7 million) might have reached about 38 per

cent of the Dutch electorate (de Graaf, 2010). In absolute numbers, the German Wahl-O-

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Mat Implementen before the federal election in 2009 has been used by the largest number

of users ever: 6.7 million (Marschall and Schmidt, 2010).

VAAs have not only been deployed on the national level. Before the Europeanelections of 2009, supranational VAAs had been launched the most prominent one under

the auspices of the EUI-based European Union Democracy Observatory (EUDO). In only

six weeks, the EU Profiler was able to attract more than 2.5 million users from all around

the continent (Breuer, 2010). The second transnational VAA for the European elections,

the VoteMatch EU was produced by a consortium of organizations that offers VAAs on a

national level.

As they have been established in many countries and as they are used so

intensively by the voters VAAs have started to constitute a relevant field of social

science research. Early studies have primarily concentrated on the characteristics of the

users (Boogers and Voerman, 2003; Hooghe and Teepe, 2007; Wall et al., 2009). With

the growing number of voters resorting to these tools during election times, a progressive

interest has arisen with respect to the consistency and reliability of the voting advice

provided by these applications. This stream of VAA-research has resulted 3 in a number

of articles dealing with methodological issues such as the process of statement selection

(Walgrave et al., 2009) and the way in which parties positions on the various statements

areor should beestablished (Trechsel and Mair, 2011). More recently, the impressive

numbers of users visiting VAA-websites during election campaigns have led a group of

political scientist to research effects of these tools also on users electoral behavior.

In another paper, Ruusuvra and Rosema (2008) reported that some researchers

investigated how voters are matched to parties by online voting advice applications(VAAs). The first such websites, which provide voting advice by matching user-entered

policy views with parties positions, were developed in Finland and the Netherlands in

the mid-1990s, and the concept has since spread to most European countries as well as

the USA and Canada. VAAs now have millions of users in many countries. For example,

nearly 40 per cent of the electorate in the Netherlands and Finland used at least one VAA

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in the run up to the parliamentary elections in 2006 and 2007, respectively. High user

figures have also been reported in Germany, Belgium and Switzerland (Germany: 6.7

million VAA recommendations or 11 per cent of the electorate in 2009; Bundeszentrale

fur politische Bildung, 2009; Belgium: a million users or 13 per cent of the electorate in2004; Walgrave et al., 2008; Switzerland: over a million users or 21 per cent of the

electorate in 2007; Ladner et al., 2008: 4). VAAs are clearly not just another passing

internet gimmick.

According to Barnes (1997), voting advice applications may also have important

political consequences such as considered against a backdrop of declining party loyalty

and cleavage-based voting and an increase of issue voting. It could even potentially

affect the electoral decision making of many citizens. For example, they have become the

most important source of election information for young voters in Finland (Strandberg,

2009: 78-83), while a large proportion of website users say that the VAAs help them to

decide how to vote ( Marschall, 2005: 45; Fivaz and Schwarz, 2007, & Bengtsson and

Grnlund, 2005: 249).

VAAs may also persuade a small number of voters to change their candidate or

party choice. In the 2005 German federal elections, six per cent of Wahl-O-Mat users

surveyed said that they will change their vote choice as a result of VAA use (Marschall,

2005: 45) whereas the equivalent effect was approximately ten per cent in the 2006 Dutch

elections (Kleinnijenhuis and van Hoof, 2008: 8). In the 2007 Finnish parliamentary

elections, the conversion rate was just three per cent, but a surprisingly high 15 per cent

of the surveyed VAA users said that they did not have a favorite candidate and voted for

the candidate suggested by a VAA (Mykknen et al., 2007: 5). While such self-reported

assessments of VAA influence are of course of uncertain validity, VAAs are clearlyexceedingly popular online tools to help voters gain political information and make

decisions. As such, they may have a non-trivial impact on voting behavior. This means

that it is important to understand what kinds of recommendations VAAs give. Taking a

VAA test may influence the way voters think about politics and their electoral choice.

There are thus democratic implications to the design of VAAs like what notion of

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democracy do they represent, and what kind of voting do they encourage? In this paper,

the researchers examined the model of voting that underlies these online applications.

Specifically, they consider when they treat the preferences entered by voters as matching

those of parties. By understanding what VAAs treat as voter-party congruence, they alsoclarify which model of voter representation underlies these applications. In doing so, they

concentrate on proximity, directional, salience and valence models of vote choice. They

found out that VAAs reflect a view of party competition and voting that is largely based

on issue-based proximity models. This means that parties are seen as congruent with

voters if their ideological distance to each other is low, so voter representation is along

the lines suggested by the responsible party model (APSA, 1950). Having established

the dominant model of voting encoded in VAAs, the researchers investigated whether the

actual recommendations given were in fact follow the proximity logic as well.

Specifically, they analyzed 13 VAAs from Austria, Belgium, Finland, France, Germany,

the Netherlands, and Switzerland and compare party positions extracted from these

applications with expert survey and manifesto data. They found that in general terms

VAAs reflect party positions well, but that accuracy depends on the number of questions

asked. This means that party-voter matches on secondary issues, which are represented

by fewer VAA questions, are less exact. While Finnish researchers have used candidate

preferences recorded in VAAs to study the ideology of MPs and voter-representative

congruence (Paloheimo et al., 2005; Kestil-Kekkonen and Wass, 2008; Reunanen and

Suhonen, 2009), the paper presents the first cross-national attempt to systematically study

how voting advice applications match voters to parties.

1.3.2 Local Literature

In spite of the popularity of the system in other countries, the Philippines have

not yet delve on exploring VAA as a modality to improve the electoral process. This is

manifested by nil researches or studies conducted and published locally.

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Synthesis

This review highlighted essential findings related to the study at hand. It brought

into focus experiences of the Voting Advice Applications System users as well as their

lessons learned in adopting the system. As revealed in previous research works

conducted about VAA, significant proportion of users are motivated to participate in

elections manifested by their willingness to cast their votes in accordance with the advice

obtained. Related study showed significant differences in VAA effects on voter turnout

and electoral choice that might be based on the respective political context in which the

system was applied, but could also be explained by the fact that the empirical VAA

research so far has not followed common standards. A lack of standardization in the field

to date means that the items used to elicit estimates of VAAs influence vary substantially

across national case studies (Cedroni and Garzia, 2010).

Likewise, majority of published studies rely on post-test questionnaires

administered to users right after playing the test. Modeling VAA effects based on these

sources, however, can lead to severe biases in terms of estimated individual level effects.

This kind of data can overestimate to a substantial extent the actual effect exerted by

VAA-usage on the participation in elections and the voting decision. As Walgrave et al.

(2008) demonstrated, the reported intention in post-test surveys to change vote choice in

accordance with the VAA does not always match with actual changes in voting behavior.

Finally, considering the essence of the reviewed related literatures and studies by

foreign researchers and the dearth of locally conducted study about VAA system, it only

shows that there is a need to pursue this study.

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1.4 Conceptual Framework

Figure 1.1 Paradigm of the Study

INPUT PROCESS OUTPUT

MONITORING AND EVALUATION

CANDIDATES

Personal

Information

Platform of

government.

Comments on

the existing

system of USC

election

Recommendatio

n to improve the

system

VOTERS

Personal

Information

List of expected

platforms of the

candidates

Preferred traits

of candidates

Comments of

the existing

system of USC

election

Recommendatio

n to improve the

system

Survey

Interview

Research

works/thesis of

related studies

Design the desired

system

Develop the

proposed system

Testing the system

Implementation

Voting Advice

Application

System

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Figure 1.1 shows the process how the study was conceptualized and made into

reality following the Input-Process-Output format. The proponents gathered all

pertinent data through administration of survey instruments, conduct of interview

with selected USC officers and OSA personnel. Moreover, the proponents undertooklibrary and online research works to identify books, reference materials and theses

which are related to the study. After which, the proponents designed and then

developed the desired system. The study concluded by subjecting the developed

system to a series of testing. Each stage of the study was subjected to close

monitoring and evaluation to ensure that the system is perfect and functional.

1.5 Statement of the Problem

This section shows the different problems that the student-voters of DHVTSU

are experiencing following the existing electoral process.

1.5.1 General Problem

Voters are having difficulty identifying and choosing the right candidate or party

to vote for during the annual USC election. They are not given enough information about

the characteristics of the candidates and to clarify their plans or promises (platform of

government) for the studentry due to limited time and poor campaign strategies.

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1.5.2 Specific Problem

This section describes the specific problems experienced by the students-voters

and candidates during the conduct of annual USC election.

1. Not all candidates are confident in introducing themselves and presenting their

platform of government before a group of students or crowd thereby limiting

their chance of encouraging more votes from the,

2. Candidates have limited budget to enhance their campaign strategies like

printing of flyers, tarpaulins, streamers:

3. Voters have insufficient information about the candidates making it hard for

them to make the right decision when they cast their votes;

4. Candidates belonging to a bigger unit or college have the advantage of winning

the political race compared to the smaller ones because of familiarity.

1.6 Objectives of the Study

The section presents the objectives of the study that will respond to the problems

encountered viz-a-viz electoral exercise in DHVTSUs annual election of USC officers.

1.6.1 General Objective

The main objectives of this study is to introduce to DHVTSU an online system

called Voting Advice Application that will help voters engage in a variety of online

political activities, including: acquiring and sharing political information; participating in

online discussions of political issues; mobilizing others to vote and participate in offline

activities and will help reduce, if not totally eliminate, confusion of voters in choosing

the most qualified candidate for the University Student Council.

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1.6.2 Specific Objective

This section states the proponents detailed objectives in this study. These specific

objectives are the solutions for the aforementioned specific problems, as follows:

1. To develop an online Voting Advice Application (VAA) System that can

provide opportunity for voters to gain information about the candidates

platform of government in order to come up with the right choice during the

USC election of officers.

2. To create a system where candidates will be treated fairly by the electorate as

they will be voted based on their platform of government and not by

popularity.

3. To introduce to the university, through the OSA, an online system of voting

advice application which require lesser cost but with significant benefits for

the USC and the university.

1.7 Assumptions

This section states the assumptions of the study for the proposed system, the

Voting Advice Application System.

1. The proposed system will provide opportunity to identify deserving candidates

by answering set of questions online to be formulated by the Systems

Administrator concerning their preferred platform and getting them introduced to

the candidates/party whose platform closely match with their preference or choice

sent through the voting advice.

2. The proposed system will reduce, if not totally eliminate, the problem on

voting based on popularity and not on the merit of the candidates platform of

government.

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3. Electorate will be more motivated to participate in the electoral processby

casting their intelligent vote in accordance to the advice obtained.

1.8 Significance of the Study

This section states the significance of the study viz-a-viz educational,

technological, economic and social aspects.

1.8.1 Educational Significance

This study contains information on how to develop a Voting Advice Application

System that can be used by other researchers as reference in designing and developing

related system. Further, other researchers who wish to modify or enhance this system

may approach the proponents to be oriented and learn from their experiences while

undertaking the various phases of the project.

1.8.2 Technological Significance

This study used the Web-based system which is considered very relevant

component of information technology. It can be used as a benchmark for other

universities who are desirous to adopt online VAA system to keep their students

informed of the personal attributes and platform of their candidates to any students

organizations that can make electoral process and political exercise successful with

assured high level of voters participation.

1.8.3 Economic Significance

This study can reduce expenses incurred during the conduct of annual election of

USC officers for they need not resort to expensive campaign activities and strategies.

Through online campaign, they will be able to introduce themselves and their platforms

to the voting public who are all internet users and lovers.

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The proponents and the university can benefit from this study should other

schools or organizations signify interest to adopt the system.

1.8.4 Social Significance

This study provides opportunity to the electorate to actively involved in the

electoral process by voting the most qualified candidates. Success in the implementation

of the Voting Advice Application System can even be recognized and adopted or

improved by concerned government entity as part of their voters education program.

1.9Scope and Limitation

The study was conducted within the Don Honorio Ventura Technological State

University. A total of 388 students randomly selected from the different colleges

served as respondents to the administered survey questionnaires. Selected USC leaders

and OSA personnel were likewise interviewed to determine the existing system and their

experiences in holding USC election of officers.

The study is focused on the design, development, and testing of online VAA

system which can address the problem on voters unfamiliarity with the candidates and

their platforms frequently encountered during the USC annual election of officers.

1.10 Operational Definitions of Terms

This section contains the operational terms and definition that have been used in this

study. Common terms used are the following:

Advice. An opinion or recommendation offered as a guide to action, conduct, etc.

http://www.freedictionary.com

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Candidates. A person seeking or nominated for election to a position of authority or

honour or selection for a job, promotion, etc. http://www.freedictionary.com

Election. Is a formal decision-making process by which a population chooses an

individual to hold public office. http://www.freedictionary.com

Electorate. One who has the right to vote. http://www.freedictionary.com

Internet. The worldwide system of linked computer network.

http://www.freedictionary.com

Platforms. A formal declaration of the principles on which a group, such as a

political party, makes its appeal to the public. http://www.freedictionary.com

Voting. To express one's preference for a candidate or for a proposed resolution of an

issue. http://www.freedictionary.com

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Chapter 2

METHODOLOGY

This chapter presents the different methods used in developing and evaluating thesystem. It also presents the sampling techniques that the proponents used in choosing the

respondents and the different research instruments that have been used in gathering data

as well as its statistical treatment.

2.1 Type of Research

Descriptive Method of research was appropriately employed in completing thisstudy. This method is a general procedure that describes the nature of the situation as it

exists at the time of the study and explores the course of the particular phenomena.

2.1 Respondents of the Study

The main respondents for this study are selected students and personnel of

DHVTSU who are directly involved in the conduct of the annual USC election of

officers. The proponents conducted a survey by means of administering printed

questionnaires which have been distributed to a total of 388 respondents.

Respondents of the study were chosen following the Slovens formula:

Where:

n = sample size

N = Population Size

E = margin of error


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By using the formula, the proponents got 388 respondents from the total

DHVTSU students population of 13,323 using 5% or 0.05 error tolerances.

n= 13323/ (1+13323*0.05*0.05)

n=13323/(1+13323*.0025)

n=13323/34.31

n= 388

2.3 Sampling Technique and Procedures

The proponents used random sampling technique in choosing the respondents and

gathering information, thus the chance of being chosen as a respondent is reasonable. The

proponents chose the respondents randomly based from the total number of students.

2.4 Research Instruments

This section of the study shows the different research instruments used to gather and

collect needed data.

2.1.1 Questionnaire

The proponents formulated some questions to acquire statistical and relevant

information.. Answers were utilized by the Systems Administrator in determining the

inputs to be considered in the systems developed.

2.1.2 Interview

The proponents conducted an interview to acquire information and suggestion for

the development of proposed system from the respondents. Through this instrument, the

proponents were given the opportunity to discuss with selected respondents their

experiences and lessons learned about the present election system.

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2.1.3 Library Research

It involves collecting and reading related books available in the library as references

in establishing the theoretical framework and justification for the pursuance of the study

2.1.4 Internet Research

It involves surfing the internet for related scholarly works about VAA system.

2.5 Administration of the Instrument

Survey questionnaires were pre-tested to 10 respondents (not included in the total

sample) to determine the validity and reliability of the instruments. After which, the

instruments were administered to the 388 student-respondents who were randomly

selected. The proponents asked the students to answer the given questionnaires with

honesty and with assured confidentiality.

2.6 Analysis of Data

Data collected from the respondents were analyzed using simple statistical tool.

2.7 Methods Used in Developing the System

This section shows the methodology cycle from the system development up to the

systems operation and maintenance. The proponents used the concept methodology

cycle also known as Systems development Life Cycle (SDLC) to describe the activities

and functions used within the system.

2.7.1 Planning Phase

Planning phase includes the process of establishing the need for developing the

system. It covers the analysis of the present system of election of USC officers through

various strategies which include interview of people directly involved in the process and

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administering survey instruments. Related studies were then identified to determine

available references as basis in developing conceptual framework of the system.

The proponents jointly planned their activities well by building time table of

specific activities to be undertaken.

2.7.2Analysis Phase

This phase covers critical analysis of the problems encountered by the voters.

Through the data gathered from respondents and other co-operators (i.e OSA personnel

and USC officers), the proponents come-up with their conclusions and possible actions to

address the problems.

2.7.3 Design Phase

This phase covers the conceptualization of the design of the proposed system with

all its features and documented detailed system of operation. This was realized through

the application of the inputs, processes and outputs (IPO) framework.

2.7.4 Implementation Phase

After the completion of the design, the proponents started working on the

development of the VAA system followed by a series of testing to determine its

functionality and workability. Possible weaknesses and faults that occurred inside the

system were determined and acted upon by the proponents.

2.7.5 Operation and Support Phase

This phase represent the actual operation of the system. The proponents uploaded

the system in the internet and tested to selected users. Problems encountered were

properly documented and used as basis for corrective measures. This includes correction,

additions, and movements to a different computing platform, among others. The

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proponents made sure that the developed system had continuous improvement by

entertaining objective comments and suggestions of the users/voters.

2.8 Methods Used for System Evaluation

This section shows the methodology used in the evaluation of the system together

with the feasibility of the different aspects, to wit:

2.8.1 Economic Feasibility

The economic feasibility covers the budgetary requirements composed of

breakdown of all expenses incurred in the developed system as well as the computed

return-on-investment (ROI) or benefits which can be derived from it.

This analysis is similar with those technology-generated research projects which

directly contribute to economic development of the university, in particular and the

country, in general.

2.8.2 Operational Feasibility

The operational feasibility determines the functionality and efficiency of the

system developed. It is the process where the proponents studied whether the system

operate properly without faults and errors before its full implementation.

2.8.3 Technical Feasibility

This includes in-depth study on the technical aspects of the system ensuring that

all systems work or functions based on the design that was developed by the proponents.

This likewise include application of technical expertise of the proponents in employing

corrective measures concerning faults and errors encountered during the testing and

implementation of the system.

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2.9 Statistical Treatment of Data

This section of the study refers to the statistical computation and analysis of data

gathered from the respondents of the administered survey questionnaires.

2.9.1 Statistical Procedures

After retrieving the questionnaires, the proponents performed statistical analysis

to come up with the best interpretation Weighted mean was used to determine the degree

of importance of the items being analyzed following the formula, as follows:

Weighted Mean

WM =

Where:

WM = Weighted Mean

WV = Weighted Value

= Symbol for the summation process

N =Number of Respondents

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1. In assessing the effectiveness of the Existing System for the election of

USC officers, the following rating scales with corresponding value were used:

Rating Scale Point Values

Outstanding 5

Very Satisfied 4

Satisfied 3

Unsatisfied 2

Very Unsatisfied 1

To get the overall assessment of existing system in terms of its effectiveness,

weighted mean was computed, and the following conversion table was used:

Weighted Mean Descriptive Rating

4.515.00 Very Effective

3.51 - 4.50 Effective

2.51-3.50 Uncertain

1.502.50 Ineffective

1.001.50 Very Ineffective

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2. In assessing the reliability of the Existing System election of the USC officers, the

following rating scales with corresponding values were used:


Outstanding 5

Very Satisfied 4

Satisfied 3

Unsatisfied 2

Very Unsatisfied 1

To get the overall assessment terms of the reliability of the existing system, weighted

mean was computed and the following conversion table used:


4.515.00 Outstanding

3.51 - 4.50 Very Reliable

2.51-3.50 Reliable

1.502.50 Unreliable

1.001.50 Very Unreliable

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3. In assessing on how helpful is the existing system for the election of USC

officers to the end user, the following rating scales with corresponding values were

used:


Outstanding 5

Very Satisfied 4

Satisfied 3

Unsatisfied 2

Very Unsatisfied 1

To get the overall assessment on how helpful is the existing system to the end users,

weighted mean was computed and the following conversion table used:


4.515.00 Very Satisfied

3.51 - 4.50 Satisfied

2.51-3.50 Uncertain

1.502.50 Unsatisfied

1.001.50 Very Unsatisfied


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Chapter 3

RESULT AND DISCUSSION

This chapter presents the analysis and interpretation of data gathered consistent

with the statement of the problem for this study. The result is presented using the tabular

and textual presentations.

The proponents administered survey instruments and conducted interview to

selected students, incumbent USC officers and OSA personnel of the Don Honorio

Ventura Technological State University to determine the effectiveness, reliability and

helpfulness of the existing system for USC election of officers.

The respondents of the study are composed of three hundred eighty-eight (388)

students-voters from different colleges of the university selected through random

sampling method using the slovens formula.

3.1 Assessment of the Existing System for the Election of USC Officers

The table presented below shows the result of survey and opinions of the

respondents on how efficient the existing system for election of USC Officers is.

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Table 3.1.1

Assessment on the Effectiveness of the Existing System

for the Election of USC Officers

Table 3.1.1 shows the frequency distribution, weighted mean and the descriptive

rating of the assessment of the respondents on the effectiveness of the existing system.

With the computed average weighted mean of 1.42, it can be deduced that the

respondents found the existing system for the election of USC officers very ineffective.

It means that the existing system failed to provide the voters with vital information

about the candidates, about the election itself and the candidates for certain positions.

This somehow affect the result of the election where wrong candidates were elected as

leaders.

Aspects 5

(O)

4

(VS)

3

(S)

2

(U)

1

(VU)

WV WM DR

a. In giving

informationabout the

candidate.

7

(35)

0

(0)

0

(0)

180

(360)

201

(201)

388

(596)

1.54

Ineffecti

ve

b. In givinginformation

about theelection.

7

(35)

0

(0)

0

(0)

94

(188)

287

(287)

388

(510)1.31

Very

Ineffecti

ve

c. In giving

informationabout who

are thecandidatesin a certain

position.

7

(35)

0

(0)

0

(0)

110

(220)

271

(271)

388

(526)

1.40

Very

Ineffecti

ve

Average Weighted Mean=1.42 Very Ineffective

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Table 3.1.2

Assessment on the Reliability of the Existing System

for the Election of USC Officers


rating of the respondents on the reliability of the existing system for election of USC

Officers. Based on the computed average weighted mean of 1.84 , it bears out the

unreliability of the existing system as perceived by the respondents. Apparently, the

existing system failed to give correct information about the election as well as present

non-bias advice to concerned individuals and availability was not felt when needed.

This would mean that the respondents consider these aspects as crucial in

determining the reliability of any election system.

Aspects 5

(O)

4

(VS)

3

(S)

2

(U)

1

(VU)

WV WM DR

a. In givinga correctinformation

7

(35)

0

()

147

(441)

234

(468)

0

()

388

(944)

2.43

Unreliable

b. In givingnon-biasadvice

7

(35)

0

()

0

()

186

(372)

195

(195)

388

(602)1.60

Unreliable

c. In beingavailable ifneeded

7

(35)

0

()

3

(9)

154

(308)

224

(224)

388

(567)

1.50

Very

Unreliable

Average Weighted Mean=1.84 Unreliable

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Table 3.1.3

Assessment on the Helpfulness of the Existing System

for the Election for USC Officers


rating of the respondents on how the existing system helps the voters during the election

of USC officers.. With an average weighted mean of 1.84, it turned out that the existing

system is unreliable. As can be gleaned from the result, the respondents found the

existing system not reliable giving correct information about the election as well as

presenting non-bias advice to concerned individuals and making the system available

when the need it.

In the same vein, these aspects are regarded vital yardsticks by respondents in

determining the helpfulness of any election system to the end-users.

3.2 Attitude of the respondents towards the Existing System

Aspects 5

(O)

4

(VS)

3

(S)

2

(U)

1

(VU)

WV WM DR

a. byprovidinginformation

about the

candidate

7

(35)

0

()

0

()

0

()

0

()

388

()

Unreliable

b. In givingnon-bias

advice

7

(35)

0

()

0

() () ()

388

()

Unreliable

c. In being

available ifneeded

7

(35)

0

() () () ()

388

()

Very

Unreliable

Average Weighted Mean=1.84 Unreliable


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The existing system was claimed by the majority of respondents as very

traditional which are not appreciated by them. As some averred, .. the campaign system

of candidates was too elementary (basic). Another one declared that the entire system is

actually a waste of time and money.

Flyers, Posters, and even Online ads especially in social networking sites dont

work much with some of the respondents. One even claimed, sometimes Im annoyed

with those political gimmicks by the candidates which do not show what their plans are

for us students. This comments only shows negative attitude among selected

respondents who are desirous of some innovative reforms on the existing election system

in DHVTSU.

3.3Existing System Capability

The existing system apparently lack the capability to encourage higher level of

voters participation in the electoral process. The annual election of USC officers which

should have been treated by students as critical as they will be electing their leaders who

will serve as their representatives in negotiating with the school management on matters

of their interests are observed to be a futile exercise as some students voted only for

compliance or for fun. One respondents shared his experience last election day. He said,

I casted my vote in favor of (???) because he is the only one I know. Why should I vote

for others coming from another department. Others might think that we are not united in

our college!. It goes without saying that for others, election is a mere competition

among departments of the university.

3.4 System Improvement Suggestion

The present system of election has to be evaluated and if needed be revised to

make it more functional. More effort must be exerted in the campaign process wherevoters will have more opportunity to know the candidates and appreciate their platforms

of government which they will use as basis in making wise election. As one respondent

observed, ..for as long as you are handsome, you are likely to win. You must have face

value to win the race even if you dont have leadership ability.

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As suggested by the respondents, a more effective system should be developed in

order to ensure reliable election result where those voted as officers are truly qualified

and service-oriented. As much as possible, they suggested online system of electoral

campaign be developed in as much as the university is technological in nature.

3.5 Technological Preparedness

As its vision, DHVTSU aims to become the premier technological state

university. As such, the officers must focus more on the installation of needed systems in

the operation of its various units and programs. One best way is to encourage all students

of technological courses, like the B.S. in Information Technology, to design and develop

new or modified system that will be of great importance and will provide greater benefits

to the university.

Development of online system for election of USC Officers can be undertaken by

the students who were trained in programming activities by able professors of the

university.

3.6Requirements Specifications

Models of the system to be developed make up an integral part of every

requirement specifications. It provides a substantiated basis for the development of these

models. Unfortunately, there is no universal specification of requirements. Rather, the

choice and level of detail of models depend on various factors.

3.6.1 Problem Statement

1. Not all candidates have their advertising strategy that is why voters dont have

much information about that candidate and this may lessen their option in choosing

the candidate that matches their political policies.

2. Since not all of the voters getting enough information about the

candidates/parties. Voters are having a hard time to choose their candidate.

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3. Voters need some advice or suggestions for the reason of having more than the

required candidates/parties to vote for.

4. Having negative impact on electoral turnout. It is because that some of the voters

voted the candidate that didnt even match their political policies.

3.6.2 Data Statement

Administrator profile is needed upon registration for new account, where the

profile may consist of full name, address, gender, email, username, password and the

authentication code from the head of election committee.

3.6.3 Transaction Requirements

Transaction requirement is the last step to be considered in the requirements

specification. The main transaction required by this system as suggested by the

respondents and as being approved upon by the proponents.

The main transaction required by this system as suggested by respondents and as

being observed by the proponents includes:

1. Anyone who is connected to the internet can use the Voting Application.

2. Having a more appealing graphical design

3. The proposed system will give a ranked list of candidate that will be based

according to the voters political policies.

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Chapter 4

DESIGN OF THE PROPOSED SYSTEM

This chapter uses graphical techniques through diagrams like Entity Relationship

Diagram (ERD) and Data Flow Diagram (DFD) which shows the logical model and the

flow of the existing system and the proposed system. The diagrams are used to tell or

describe what the system does or the transactions it undergoes and the entities involve.

4.1 Entity- Relationship Diagram (ERD)

4.1.1 Initial Entity-Relationship Diagram of the Proposed System


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4.1.2 Final Entity Relationship Diagram

4.2 Data Flow Diagram

4.2.1 Data Flow Diagram of the Existing System

4.2.1.1 Context Diagram of the Existing System

4.2.1.1 Diagram 0 of the Existing System

4.2.2 Data Flow Diagram of the Proposed System

Figure 4.2.2.1 Context Diagram of the Proposed System

Figure 4.2.2.2 Diagram 0 of the Proposed System

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4.3 Data Flow Diagram of the Proposed System

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4.3 Hardware and Software Specification

Table 4.3.1 Hardware and Software Specification

HARDWARE SPECIFICATION

Processor: Intel

Pentium/Celeron/AMD at least

5Mhz

Memory: 128MB RAM or higher

Graphic Card: 32MB or Higher

OS:

Windows 98 or Higher

SOFTWARE SPECIFICATION

Any internet browser.

Internet Connection

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4.4 System Architecture

The system architecture shows the figure of the server client connection where in the

database resides in the web browser as shown in figure 7. All the datas from the client

are in the database which is the web-server. The server has a greater security control than

the client. It also performs better control access to guarantee that the client with the

appropriate permissions may access the admin. And the client must have an internet

connection to access the proposed system.

Internet

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4.5 Prototype Process

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Figure 4.5.1 Homepage and Login

This is the Homepage and Login page of the system where the administrator can log

in their username and password.

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Figure 4.5.2 User Registration

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Figure 4.5.3 User Datagrid

This page shows the user datagrid where the admin can manage the user account.

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Figure 4.5.4 Candidate Registration

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Figure 4.5.5 Administrator Portal

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Figure 4.5.6 Accomplishment

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Figure 4.5.7 Candidate Datagrid

4.6 Cost and Benefit Analysis

The Cost and Benefit Analysis is the estimation of total cost of money used in the

development of the proposed system. Analysis is undertaken to determine whether the

cost of the project is comparable or exceeded with the needed or targeted benefits of end

users .

Table 4.6.1

Development Cost of the Proposed System

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Development Cost

Hardware Cost

2 Laptop Computer 35,000.00

Broadband Kit 1,000.00

Total 36,000.00

Software Cost

Dreamweaver 150.00

MySQL 150.00

150.00

Total 450.00

Miscellaneous Cost

Print 1,000.00

Transportation 1,000.00

Internet Fee 3,000.00

Electricity, Water, Food 15.,000.00

Total 20,000.00

Total Development Cost 56,450.00

Table 4.6.1 shows the development cost of the proposed system, which consist of

the hardware, software, and miscellaneous cost. The total cost of the is Php. 56,450.00

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Chapter 5

SUMMARY, CONCLUSIONS AND RECOMMENDATIONS

This chapter shows the summary, conclusions and recommendations of proponents

based in the information they gathered.

Summary

Voters are having difficulty identifying and choosing the right candidate or party

to vote for during the annual USC election. They are not given enough information about

the characteristics of the candidates and to clarify their plans or promises (platform of

government) for the students due to limited time and poor campaign strategies.

This prompted the proponents to introduce to DHVTSU an online system called

Voting Advice Application that will help voters engage in a variety of online political

activities, including acquiring and sharing political information, participating in online

discussions of political issues, mobilizing others to vote and participate in offline

activities and will help reduce, if not totally eliminate, confusion of voters in choosing

the most qualified candidate for the University Student Council.

The study was conducted within the Don Honorio Ventura Technological State

University. A total of 388 students randomly selected from the different colleges using

the slovens formula served as respondents to the administered survey questionnaires.

Selected USC leaders and OSA personnel were likewise interviewed to determine the

existing system and their experiences in holding USC election of officers.

Summary of findings are as follows:

1. Assessment of the respondents on the effectiveness of the existing system for

the election of USC officers very ineffective. It means that the existing system failed

to provide the voters with vital information about the candidates, about the election itself

and the candidates for certain positions. This somehow affect the result of the election

where wrong candidates were elected as leaders;

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2. Assessment of the respondents on the reliability of the existing system for

election of USC Officers is unreliable. Apparently, the existing system failed to give

correct information about the election as well as present non-bias advice to concerned

individuals and availability was not felt when needed. This would mean that the

respondents consider these aspects as crucial in determining the reliability of any election

system:

3. Assessment on how the existing system helps the voters during the election of

USC officers is likewise unreliable and not helpful;

4. Generally the attitude of the respondents towards the existing system is not

favorable;

5. The existing system apparently lack the capability to encourage higher level

of voters participation in the electoral process.

6. The present system of election has to be evaluated and if needed be revised to

make it more functional.

7. DHVTSU students are technologically prepared to develop system beneficial to

the university.

Conclusion

Based on the results and finding of the study, there is a need to improve

the present system of election of USC Officers. An online system called Voting

Advice Applications (VAA) can be a potential alternative or solution to the

problem.

This online tool or system will help voters gain political information and

make decisions. It will influence the way voters think about politics and their

electoral choice. It will be of great help for the OSA to ensure higher level andmore educated involvement of students in the university electoral process.

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Recommendation

Based on the findings and conclusion made in this study the following are

hereby recommended:

1. Adoption of the VAA System by the Office of the Students Affair comes

election of USC Officers;

2. Massive information-dissemination drive to make the students aware of

the system; and

3. Further study should be conducted to identify specific areas for the VAA

system improvement.

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References

A. Books

Bengtsson, A. and K. Gronlund (2005). Ehdokasvalinta in Paloheimo, H. (Ed.),

Vaalit ja demokratia Suomessa. Helsinki: WSOY, 229-51.

Boogers, M.; voerman, G. (2003). Surfing citizens and floating voters: Results of

an online survey of visitors to political web sites during the Dutch 2002 General

Elections.Information Polity 8: 17-27.

Cedroni,. L.; Garzia, D. (eds) (2010). Voting Advice Application in Europe: State

of the Art. Napoli:ScriptaWeb.

De Graaf, J. (2010). The Irresistible Rise of Stemwijer. . In L. Cedroni; D. Garzia

(eds.). Voting Advice Application in Europe The State of the Art. Napoli:

ScriptaWeb

Fivaz, J. and D. Schwarz (2007). Nailing the Pudding to the Wall: E-Democracy

as Catalyst for Transparency and Accountability. Paper presented at the Direct

Democracy in Latin-America conference, 14-15 March 2007, Buenos Aires,

Argentina.

Hooghe, M.; Teepe, W. (2007). Party profiles on the web: an analysis of the

logfiles of non-partisan interactive political internet sites in the 2003 and 2004

election campaign in Belgium. New Media & Society 9: 965-85.

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Kleinnijenhus, J. and M.J. van Hoof (2008). The influence of Internet

Consultants. Paper presented at the International Communication Association

conference, Montreal, May 2008, Montreal

Ladner. A.; Felder, G; Fivaz, J. (2010). More than toys? A first assessment of

voting advice application in Switzerland. In L. Cedroni; D. Garzia (eds.) Voting

Advice Application in Europe. The state of the Art.Napoli: ScriptaWeb, 91-123.

Marschall, S; Schimidt, C. K; (2010) Party profiles on the web: analysis of

logfiles of non-partisan interactive political internet sites in the 2003 an 2004

election campaign in Belgium.New Media & Society 9: 965-85.

Mykkanen, J., T. Moring and J. Pehkonen (2007). Tutkimus vaalikoneiden

kaytosta ja suhtaumitumisesta vaalikoneisiin: vaalikoneet koetan hyodyllisiksi.

Ruusvirta, O. Rosema, M. (2009). Do online vote sectors influence electoral

articipation and the direction of the vote? Paper presented at European

Consortium for Political Research (ECPR) General Conference, Potsdam,

Germany, 10-12 September 2009.

Trechsel, A. H. Mair, P. (2011). When parties (also) position themselves: n

introduction to the EU Profiler.Journal of Information Technology & Politics 8:

1-20.

Walgrave, Stefaan/van Aelst, Peter/Nuytemans, Michiel (2008b): Vote Advice

Applications as new Campaign Players? The Electoral Effects of the Do the

Vote Test during the 2004 Regional Elections in Belgium. In: Farrell,

David/Schmitt-Beck, Rdiger (eds.): Non Party Actors in Electoral Politics. The

Role of Interest Groups and Independent Citizens in Contemporary Election

Campaigns. Baden-Baden: Nomos, pp. 237-258.

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Wall, M.; Sudulich, M.; Costello, R.; Leon, E. (2009). Picking your party online

An Investigation of Irelands first online voting advice application.Information

Polity 14: 203-18.

B. Internet

http://global.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/182308/election

http://www.thefreedictionary.com

http://www.google.com

APPENDICES

51
http://global.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/182308/electionhttp://global.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/182308/electionhttp://www.thefreedictionary.com/http://www.thefreedictionary.com/http://www.google.com/http://www.google.com/http://www.google.com/http://www.thefreedictionary.com/http://global.britannica.com/EBchecked/topic/182308/election


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APPENDIX A

(Questionnaire)

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DON HONORIO VENTURA TECHNOLOGICAL STATE UNIVERSITY 53

Documents

DEVELOPMENT OF A VOTING ADVICE APPLICATION (VAA) SYSTEM