My Communities

It is so important to test the data collection tool because sometimes the language is too technical or it may lead to misunderstandings and not capture the information we need, it is also important to trainig well the people who will be collecting the data so they are familiar with the organization terminology and values.

Pour la création d'outils de collecte il convient de se poser certaine questions a savoir le pourquoi, destiné a qui, pour quel but et finalité ( What: Will these methods provide the correct type of information?
Who: Are they appropriate for the group of people that I’d like to collect data from?
How Often: Will I be able to use this method as often as I need to?
By whom: Who will be collecting information? Are they qualified to use this method?
Can we do it: Will they be practical to use? Do I have the time, expertise and resources to do a good job?)

Pour la création d'outils de collecte il convient de se poser certaine questions a savoir le pourquoi, destiné a qui, pour quel but et finalité ( What: Will these methods provide the correct type of information?
Who: Are they appropriate for the group of people that I’d like to collect data from?
How Often: Will I be able to use this method as often as I need to?
By whom: Who will be collecting information? Are they qualified to use this method?
Can we do it: Will they be practical to use? Do I have the time, expertise and resources to do a good job?)

Pour la création d'outils de collecte il convient de se poser certaine questions a savoir le pourquoi, destiné a qui, pour quel but et finalité ( What: Will these methods provide the correct type of information?
Who: Are they appropriate for the group of people that I’d like to collect data from?
How Often: Will I be able to use this method as often as I need to?
By whom: Who will be collecting information? Are they qualified to use this method?
Can we do it: Will they be practical to use? Do I have the time, expertise and resources to do a good job?)

Creating data tools helps one to collect the right kind of data. It also helps to keep track of the kind of data that has been collected

Creating data collection tools is a vital process in data collection. The success of the activity largely depends on the tool.

This one came off slightly more easier understanding and practical

Data collection tools are forms, documents or guidelines that help individuals or organizations collect data.

In order to measure a group of indicators by the same tool, they need to share the same; data collection method, source and collection schedule.

To create data collection tools, one should consider the following tips.

• Identify who will use the tool. One should consider education level of the user, experience of the user using the
  tool
  and how comfortable they are using the tool.

• Focus on essential information. You should keep your tool simple by focusing on collecting essential information.

• Collect Metadata. This is the information that explains how your data was collected. The data collection tool the
  should have space to record the following types of metadata; title of the tool, version of the tool, who used the
  tool, when and where was it used.

• Pre-test your tool. This will help the data collector know if the tool is simple to use, if the questions are in
  misinterpreted and if the tool is used the way it was expected to.

• Training of staff to use the tool and include instructions.

Data collection tools are forms/ documents or guides that help individuals or organizations collect data

It should be noted that a group of indicators can be measured by the same tool if they share the same; data collection method, come from the same source and same collection schedule.

In order to create data collection tools, one should follow the following tips;

• Identify who will use the tool. One should consider the data collectors' level of education, experience using the particular tool and how comfortable they are using the tool.

• Focus on essential information. One should keep the tool simple by focusing on collecting essential information.

• Collect metadata. Metadata is the information that explains how your data was collected. The data collection tool should have space to record the following types of metadata; title of the tool, version of the tool, who used the tool, when and where the tool was used.

• Pre-test your tool. This is done to determine if the tool is simple to use, are there misinterpreted questions, if tools are used the way it is expected to be used.

*Train staff to use the tool and include instructions.

Surveys
Surveys are performed through questionnaires. A standard set of questions are used for performing the survey of any specific topic.Training Evaluation Survey.pdf

Observation
Observation is a data collection technique that is performed by monitoring or viewing the subject.

Sometimes observations are performed continuously or in a set of time periods. There can be different types of observations like structured, unstructured, and semi-structured.

The limitation of observations is that it consumes time and it affects the behavior of the participants.

Interviews
An interview is another data collection technique.

For collecting the data through this technique, interviews are performed in groups or on a one-on-one basis. During interviews, the data can be collected using stenography, video recordings, audio recordings, or written notes.

Training Evaluation Survey.docx

Recipient Monitoring Form
Version 1
date of completion of the form : dd-mm-yyyy
Location :
Investigating Officer : ____________________

Beneficiary Information :
First and last name : ___________________
Age :
Gender : M : Male ; F : Female
Level of education : 1 : Primary ; 2 : Secondary ; 3 : Superior

How can you make sure that you are creating data collection tools that your users will be able to use easily: what tips would you offer other learners for creating that even users with low level of education, training, language fluency can us?

IMPORTANCE OF DATA COLLECTION
There are a bunch of underlying reasons for collecting data, especially for a researcher. Walking you through them, here are a few reasons;
Integrity of The Research
A key reason for collecting data, be it through quantitative or qualitative methods is to ensure that the integrity of the research question is indeed maintained.
Reduce the likelihood of errors
The correct use of appropriate data collection of methods reduces the likelihood of errors consistent with the results.
Decision Making
To minimize the risk of errors in decision making, it is important that accurate data is collected so that the researcher doesn't make uninformed decisions.
Save Cost and Time
Data collection saves the researcher time and funds that would otherwise be misspent without a deeper understanding of the topic or subject matter.
To support a need for a new idea, change and/or innovation
To prove the need for a change in the norm or the introduction of new information that will be widely accepted, it is important to collect data as evidence to support these claims.
Data collection tools refer to the devices/instruments used to collect data, such as a paper questionnaire or computer-assisted interviewing system. Case Studies, Checklists, Interviews, Observation sometimes, and Surveys or Questionnaires are all tools used to collect data

Before creating a data collection tool, the following tips should be considered.

1. Identify the user of the tool
2. The data collection tools should be focused on relevant information
3. Meta data should be collected
4. The data collection tool should be tested before deployment
5. Staff should be trained on how to use the tool

These are cardinal in aiding us to collect and store data safely

observation, focus group, interview

Collecting data allows you to store and analyze important information about your existing and potential customers. ... It costs less and is faster than in-person data, and it removes any potential bias or human error from the data collected.

I enjoyed this module and I learnt the basic things to know before choosing a data collection method which includes what, how often, to whom and can we do it.

The large share of project success lies in how we create our data collection tools. Thank you

Data Collection Tools help us get qualitative data as well as quantitative data that is required for our project. We need to consider many things in designing a data collection tool such as who will be using the tool, the kind of data and sources, etc.

just let that even the staff using data tools should be trained on how to use them as we should not depend on assumptions

Some data collection tools like questionnaire and IDI are good to be used concurrently as each help in understanding the data gathered in the field through supporting or disputing the findings from the two sources which will help the researcher in making decision.

How well we design our data collection tool also determine the success of having a qualitative data. A very coherent designed data collection is likely to stimulate flow of information from the respondents and willingness to provide the expected information.

Reviewing previously used instrument for your present project helps immensely in developing a good data collection tool. It will enable you understand the challenges experienced by others as well helps you to avoid repeating such mistakes in your own project.

The tools designed have to be in different formats for FGDs,s surveys and forms - although they may be seeking the same information

I agree. In addition, these tools can collect quantitative or qualitative indicators

The qualitative and quantitative tools should be pretested with the respondents who fit the profile of the target respondents in order to get the best feedback.

data collection tools are very important part of the Logframe and it is very necessary to take your time and consideration while creating them.

Creating data collection tools is a very critical activity in the M&E plan. Efforts must be made to clearly understand the indicators to be measured and if possible carry out a research to find out how similar projects have measured such indicators. This is vital because any data that is mistakenly missed out of the data collection tool will lead to waste of resources and ultimately affect the overall M&E activity.

Very correct submission.

This has been an informative lesson. Often, we don't carefully decide on what sort of data is needed to measure the indicators. Now I know.

Data collection tool is useful document for M&E. It should have all aspects needed.

OK. It is important document for M&E.

Congratulations

If possible it's good to use or adapt existing tools that are known to work, but even though you try to using as many existing tools as possible, there will still be some indicators where you need to create your own tool

After creating the tool for each indicator you need to decide who will be responsible for each step in the process. This includes who will be responsible for using the tool to collect the data, who will enter the data into the computer, who will analyze it and who will create the final report.

M and E data collection tools involves the following
1 semi-structured interviews
2 Focus groups
3 Questionnaires
4 Survey
5 observation
6 timelines
7 Ranking, rating, sorting
8 Matrices
9 Venn diagram
10 24 hour analysis
11 mapping
12 document review
13 case studies
14 significant change stories

Creating a data collection tool helps you collect your data. The tool will also help you to know what type of data you should collect. It is always important to test your tool before going to the field. If you cannot test the tool, the project officers must engage in a role play to test the tool. Tools should be simple for anyone to understand.

Creating Data Collection Tools, is one of the core steps in the M&E plan to fulfil the assignment of Monitoring and Evaluation.

Creating Data Collection Tools, is one of the core steps in the M&E plan to fulfil the assignment of Monitoring and Evaluation.

Point taken

Creating a data collection Tools, is a very important part of the M&E plan

Creating a data collection tool we must follow the tips and steps of creation as follows:

1. Identify who will use this tool. When considering who will use this tool we look at what education level the user has? What experience the user has in using thedthe collection methods? How comfortable is the user using this tool?
2. Focus on essential information. Measure all information needed to measure your indicators eg age, gender,location etc
3. Collect metadata. Metadata is information that explains how your data was collected. eg title of the tool, version of the tool, who used the tool, where the tool was used and when it was used etc.
4. Pre-test your tool.
5. Train staff to use the tool and include instructions. Never assume that your staff understand how to use the tool as different people might interpret your form differently.

most data collection tools are based around a core set of basic tools. They include interviews, focus group discussions, observation, photography, video, surveys, questionnaires and case studies. Data may also be generated through direct measurement, reviewing secondary data, and informal project / program management processes.

Key questions to ask yourself prior to data collection are:

1. What information are you going to collect?

2. How are you going to collect your data?
   a) Interviews/focus groups
   b) Phone records
   c) Surveys/questionnaires
   d) Medical records (or clinic and office charts)
   e) Recorded data from EEGs, ECGs, etc.

3. How will data be analyzed?

Data Collection tools should respond to understanding the following aspects:

1. What kind of data is required or needed?
2. Who are the people to provide data?
3. How often would one need to collect data?
4. Who will be the one to collect the data?
5. Is the data collection possible?
6. Finally,identify the type of tool suitable for collecting data.

Participant Tracking Form.docx

It is very important to create data collection tools that directly speak to the indicators that are being assessed.

it is essential to start with defining the data collection methods before you decide on the data collection tool itself...

in fact, the right data collection tool is essential to bring about project accountability and sustainability...

and also help collect the right data timely...

whats the best way of defining a qualitative indicator? because qualitative ones are quiet easy to define...

biasness comes in in instances where there tool is not piloted, and only very few individuals contribute to developing the tool

in simple terms; meta data is data about data

and the United Nations SDGs too...

and also, it helps determine how sensitive a tool will be...

with most projects being donor funded, it becomes key to have the correct data collected to guarantee continued incoming and availability of funds...

desk review is one key data collection method which can be useful at the monitoring level of a project or intervention...

This was an interesting topic and I have learnt that data collection tools are either forms , documents or guides that help individuals or organizations collect data. Each data collection will use a different set of data collection tools. Hence forth , there are tips for collecting data tools and these are : 1. identify who will use this tool. before one designs a tool he or she should identify the person who is going to use the tool. 2. Focus on essential information. 3. collect metadata. Metadata is the information that explains how your data was collected. 4 Pretest your tool. it is important to pretest your tool before use to see whether it is applicable and also to see if the user is comfortable in using it and to see whether they understand the tool. 5. Train staff to use the tool and include instructions. In this tip, one should train the staff on how to use the tool to avoid distortion in collecting data. Instructions must be included.

Data creation tools are an important aspect of M&E PLAN. Information is collected by use of this tools that help in capturing information and data useful in monitoring progress and eventually the impact of the project. In creating a data collection tools, a number of considerations are made by following a six step guidelines ; understanding your indicator, decide on which information to record, deciding how your form will be filled in , creating your form, testing your form and lastly revising your form. This criteria is important as it ensures the tool created is complete and no information is forgotten

la création d'une base de données renforce l'archivage des données et est des informations utiles pour d'autres projets à venir

Data creation tools are an important aspect of M&E PLAN. Information is collected by use of this tools that help in capturing information and data useful in monitoring progress and eventually the impact of the project. In creating a data collection tools, a number of considerations are made by following a six step guidelines ; understanding your indicator, decide on which information to record, deciding how your form will be filled in , creating your form, testing your form and lastly revising your form. This criteria is important as it ensures the tool created is complete and no information is forgotten

la création d'une base de données renforce l'archivage des données et est des informations utiles pour d'autres projets à venir

La qualité des données fait partie intégrante de toutes les activités de recherche et il est essentiel d’intégrer la gestion de la qualité dans le protocole et la planification. La gestion de la qualité est la responsabilité de toute personne engagée dans le projet et elle est essentielle pour assurer que le projet respecte ou surpasse les normes scientifiques, éthiques et réglementaires applicables. Le plan de gestion de la qualité doit indiquer clairement comment votre équipe de recherche prendra des mesures cohérentes et continues pour surveiller et évaluer la qualité et la rigueur de la recherche. Il doit indiquer comment vous évaluerez la qualité à différentes étapes.

I have learnt that they are different types of collecting data depending on your project. That includes survey, focus group , interviews and document review . it is highly important to choose what will specifically work for your project.

In creating a data collection tools M&E must take into consideration certain factors such as:
The user of the tool; essential information; collecting metadata; pre-test the tool; training of staff to use the tools and including instructions

in order to create data collection tools we should consider tow parts.
1: Determine which type of data you need to collect.
2: Determine which type of data collection you need to collect.
1: Determine which type of data you need to collect:
there is tow type of Data qualitative and quantitative data in a project, in this part you need to determine which type of data you need to collect.
a: qualitative data: are the data that are include the people think, Idea and perception. for collecting of these type of data we always use from questioner with open ended question, we use focus Group and direct observation.
b: quantitative data : are the data that are including Number percentage and ratio. for collecting of these type of data we should use questioner with close ended question and we will put a limitation for interviewee (Yes/No) (Good / Bad) (Right / Wrong) and so on.

creating and using a data collection tool is one of the challenging aspect many field officers face

creating and using a data collection tool is one of the challenging aspect many field officers face, this module have provided me with the basic fundamental knowledge on the various data collection tool to be used

When generating data collection tools emphasis should be based on the practical applicability of the tool pertaining to the purpose and the type of indicator to be measured

Data collection tools,
The data collection tools are a method that we conduct it in order to collect data based on each individual indicator to measure the progress.
The data collection tools are including.

1. Questioner
2. Focus group
3. Direct observation
4. Laboratory test
5. Survey
   So, the point is in here that how can we chose an appropriate data collection tools for gathering of the data, in this part we should know the type of data.
   Qualitative data: this is the type of data that is including the people think, idea and perception.
   For collecting of this type of data we should use focus group and interview
   Quantitative data: this type of data is including number, percentage and ratio.
   For collecting of this type of data we should use from questioner and laboratory test.

Many different methodologies can be used for data
collection and analysis. For people new to the world of
monitoring and evaluation (M&E) the list can appear quite daunting. However, most methodologies are based around the same set of basic tools. These tools are listed in this short paper, and are described in more detail in other papers in this section of the M&E Universe. The tools listed below can be used on their own, or can be applied as part of wider methodologies. For example, a survey could be designed and implemented as a standalone tool, but could also be implemented as part of a wider methodology, such as a Randomised Control Trial (RCT). Basically a Data Collection Method is a process or technique for collecting data. A Data Collection Tool

Forms, documents or guides that help individuals or organizations collect data. Each data collection method will use a different set of data collection tools. Usually a participant Tracking Form commonly used type of data collection tool. Participant Tracking Forms record information about participants who receive services.

The participant tracking form is a crucial tool where you have people participating in the project. It is alsmost similar to training schedules where you record your details

Very true

Data collection tools are essential in M&E plan as they determine the kind of data that will be collected for the project

When creating a data collection tool, it is very important to keep it simple and include only essential information needed. Putting your indicators in mind while doing this will ensure that you build a good data collection tool.

Is there any software/programme which helps us transform the survey data into graphics or charts? thanks

Very useful module.

Hello........ Does anyone have the idea of creating data tools for GBV case management. If can share such tools with me

Thank you that was a useful response

I also understand that M&E must cut across programs task too. Then M&E should include training on programs too

Many different methodologies can be used for data collection and analysis. For people new to the world of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) the list can appear quite daunting. However, most methodologies are based around the same set of basic tools. These tools are listed in this short paper, and are described in more detail in other papers in this section of the M&E Universe.

Data collection is the heart beat of any M&E assignment. One needs to have techniques on how to design appropriate tools for data collection.

Creating data collections tools is very useful for s&e. Thank to these tools, you will have datas to analyse. Creating these tools request time preparation and must be based on the indicators. If those tools are well thought and built, they can lead you to success and continuous improvement. Your data tools must be adapted to your projects, the skateholders, your team who will fill the tools, goals.

Creating data collection tool follows after selection of an indicator(Activity, outcome or impact indicator) and decide which type of information or data do you need to support it.

Data collection tools are designed and created according to the need of a indicator.The tool should capture all necessary data or information, minimize error, be simple and easily understood and specific.

To fulfill the above needs you need to consider the following;- The tool should be familiar to users to avoid misleading interpretation and other unwanted results, should contain all essential information without complication, it should include metadata, the tool should be pre-tested and finally staffs should be trained on how to use the tool.

I will first start by defining what data is. Data is the information that we collect about "our" project. In order to collect this data, it is always important to come up with a Data Collection Method. This is a process or technique used for collecting data. So in order for us to come up with accurate data, there's need to use Data Collection tools cause each Data Collection Method has a different set of Data Collection tools.
Therefore, in order to create an appropriate Data Collection tool, there are five tips to consider.

First is to identify who will use that tool in collecting the desired data. This should focus on the user's level of education, experience and competency in the tool.
Secondly, there's need to focus on providing essential information other than adding too many complex information.
Third is collecting metadata; how the data was collected. This consists of; the title of the tool, version of the tool, user of the tool, where and when they used the tool. All this is to help trace information in order to produce quality data.
The fourth is to do a Pre-test on the tool. This can both be done through imagination (using false data) or asking different people to try using the tool (before publishing it) in the same environment where data will be collected from.
Lastly is to train staff to use the tool to avoid misinterpretations and include instructions sheets that state the purpose of the tool and as well describe how it will be used.

It appears we're making progress!
How has it been going?
Please share your own progress in this course so far.

la collecte de données nécessite une équipe bien formée pour le faire

Need some more explanation and examples on indicators

To know the data collection methods is very good and it is helpful for project.

Beneficiary tracking sheet is essential part of the project. It always should be correct, updated, have a comments column. In our organization we create it in the cloud space, so all the team members who are working in different cities, can see the updated tool. Also it helps to save the tool even if the working computer will be broken.

The underlying need for creating and designing data collection is to capture quality evidence that seeks to answer all the questions that have been posed. Through data collection tools business or management can deduce quality information that is a prerequisite for making informed decisions. I have also learned in this module the importance of
identifying which tools one intend to use as well as the participating tracking form.

To improve the quality of information, it is expedient that data is collected so that you can draw inferences and make informed decisions on what is considered factual. At the end one would understand why picking the best data collection method is necessary for achieving your set objective.

Deciding on what information to be in data collection tool is really important. It is recommended to include the minimum required information. Too much information may be confusing and will cost much time to complete which may make participants to loose interest. Data collection tools should also be pre-tested before they are used in the field 'real-life'. This will ensure that errors or misunderstandings are corrected. It also necessary to collect metadata like; data of data collection, name and version of tool used, name and title of the person using the tool, and the location where the tool is used. This metadata is necessary for identify and fix quality issues relating to the data.

To create data collection tools the following must be considered.

1. Identify who will use the tools, eg. Their level of education and experience with data collection tools
2. Focus on only essential information.
3. Collect metadata
4. Pre test tools as this could help fish out errors
5. Train staff to use the tools and also include detailed instructions on proper way to use the tools

participant tracking is as good as a survey

After defining the indicators, data collection tools are created. There are different data collection tools such as interviews, observations, survey, and focus group, in capturing the defined indicators. Out of these various choices, thus it is important the rights tools are selected. Selection of the tools can be considered on a number of factors. The existing resources (time, money and staff of the project) available within the concerned project, for example is one important aspect. The number of tools chosen should be minimized as much as possible if they are enough to capture the necessary and essential information required.

During the evaluation of a project and its impact, is very important to collect data accordingly, hence Creating concrete data collection tools will be required in order to measure the impact of the project and its activities in the community.

Define data collection tools[link text](link url)

I agree with oyu

Using standard data collection tools as a template at at times is the best way to go; saves time and unnecessary errors

Nothing has ever been more awesome than this section for me!