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Data collection is an important aspect linked to the project’s indicators and eventually the overall success of the project. With many different data collection methods, some of which require more time, money and expertise than others, creating data collection tools could be both challenging and exciting. Creating data collection tools, whether quantitative or qualitative demands a long, cyclic process involving designing and piloting the tool. An important thing I learnt in this module is that you can strategize the data collection tools such that you can measure several indicators with the same tool if those indicators involve the same method (e.g. survey or interviews, etc), source (same participants), and collection schedule (e.g. weekly/monthly/annually, etc.)

This to me is the heart of M and E role because your success depend on how much the details on the form answered your indicator list

Tracking form is essential in monitoring the project performance and reduce bias

The data collection tools must be responsive to the needs, or where indicators will address the problems or the issues. The tools must be easily understand and can be used well by the monitors.

The data collection tools must be responsive to the needs, or where indicators will address the problems or the issues. The tools must be easily understand and can be used well by the monitors.

What kind of tools do you use to collect data?

I think this is probably the most daunting task there is. A key take away for me has been the issue of avoiding adding unnecessary questions. To be honest I don't feel confident that I can design a good data collection tool right now. Especially when it comes to Surveys, Interviews and the like.

1 Formats
2 Mobiles
3, Quarrtionares
4 Conversations
5 Hotlines
6 Email Communications

This tool is very useful to collect data to track beneficiaries to his we move towards success of the project. Instructions MUST be to vlear and simple for the person who will fill it.

Must build many Participant tracking form if we want to collect other informations about a specific target of the project?

What is the most used data tool for collecting information about the capacity training impact?

It is good topic and am much better

There must be careful in creating appropriate data collection tools. Sometimes wrong or incorrect data can be collected if creating of data is not careful and as a result wrong decisions can be made on the project

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.
We must carefully decide what data collection tools will be suitable for a particular data collection methodology.

Be careful while selection of data collection tool for any particular data collection method and be aware of your audience as well

These basic tools 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 / programme management processes.

These basic tools 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 / programme management processes.

Case Studies, Checklists, Interviews, Observation sometimes, and Surveys or Questionnaires are all tools used to collect data. It is important to decide the tools for data collection because research is carried out in different ways and for different purposes.

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.

It is important to decide the tools for data collection because research is carried out in different ways and for different purposes. The objective behind data collection is to capture quality evidence that allows analysis to lead to the formulation of convincing and credible answers to the questions that have been posed

Some underlying reasons and importance of collecting data:
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.

Creating a data collection tool is a really detailed process that involves a lot of different steps. It is important to keep it simple and clear so that you can get the most important data.

Creating data collection tools is vital part of data management system in order to harmonize and dictates what to collect, when do we collect them and who will be collecting then in a standardize manner. It provide easy and same template to use all across during data collection.

Choosing data collection method to my understanding is based on the targets one sets and it has a budgetary implication if not done procedurally.

As you are designing a tool it is important to consider the "Who?". Who will be providing data for your survey, focus group, interview, etc.? What are their demographics? If you are doing an online survey, do the participants have access to internet? Will the surveys need to be in a certain language? Etc.

I agree with the fact that creating data tools is essential due to the fact that data must be well collected and stored. If data is not well collected you end up with very poor results.

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.
Collecting data allows you to store and analyze important information about your existing and potential customers. Collecting this information can also save your company money by building a database of customers for future marketing and retargeting efforts.

It is very important to create a data collection tool. M&E works to monitor and evaluate the project success. The question is how the data would be collected, who is going to collect data, what kinds of data is needed. when the data would be collected and what types of participants would be attend in the survey.
According to the project outcome and impact the indicator has to be set for monitoring and evaluation. while we create a data collection tools, we need to see what kinds of data we have to collect. we need to give code of each data.
after creating the data collection tool. We need to test the tool and finalize the tools for data collection.

It is very important to create a data collection tool. M&E works to monitor and evaluate the project success. The question is how the data would be collected, who is going to collect data, what kinds of data is needed. when the data would be collected and what types of participants would be attend in the survey.
According to the project outcome and impact the indicator has to be set for monitoring and evaluation. while we create a data collection tools, we need to see what kinds of data we have to collect. we need to give code of each data.
after creating the data collection tool. We need to test the tool and finalize the tools for data collection.

The approach of data collection is different for different fields of study, depending on the required information. The most critical objective of data collection is ensuring that information-rich and reliable data is collected for statistical analysis so that data-driven decisions can be made for research

The approach of data collection is different for different fields of study, depending on the required information. The most critical objective of data collection is ensuring that information-rich and reliable data is collected for statistical analysis so that data-driven decisions can be made for research

The approach of data collection is different for different fields of study, depending on the required information. The most critical objective of data collection is ensuring that information-rich and reliable data is collected for statistical analysis so that data-driven decisions can be made for research

Seriousely, it informative. This has really built my confident when it comes to M&E planning. Most especially how identify the appropriate indicators and creating data collection for my logframe.

Data collection is a systematic process of gathering observations or measurements. Whether you are performing research for business, governmental or academic purposes, data collection allows you to gain first-hand knowledge and original insights into your research problem.

While methods and aims may differ between fields, the overall process of data collection remains largely the same. Before you begin collecting data, you need to consider:

The aim of the research
The type of data that you will collect
The methods and procedures you will use to collect, store, and process the data
To collect high-quality data that is relevant to your purposes, follow these four steps.

Creating data collection tools to me largely depends on the availability of funds. This is because the best tools usually are very expensive. Considering how important it is to collect necessary and the correct data, organizations should design and use the best tools regardless of the cost.

Creating data collection tools to me largely depends on the availability of funds. This is because the best tools usually are very expensive. Considering how important it is to collect necessary and the correct data, organizations should design and use the best tools regardless of the cost.

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.

To minimize the risk of errors in decision making, it is important that accurate data is collected so that management doesn't make uninformed decisions.

Hey, learners!

Hope you and your loved ones are doing well in these uncertain times. I never thought that the Participant Tracker can be so important to track the information of the people to whom we provide services. What do you think about the this particular topic?

Hey, learners!

Hope you and your loved ones are doing well in these uncertain times. I never thought that the Participant Tracker can be so important to track the information of the people to whom we provide services. What do you think about the this particular topic?

Data collection tools should be precise and adequately measure the data they are intended to measure.

yes we do

Data collection tools I'm aware of are focus group discussion, observation and interview to collect qualitative data
While in collecting quantitative data we can use questionnaire, laboratory measurements and document review also observations.

Data collection tools I'm aware of are focus group discussion, observation and interview to collect qualitative data
While in collecting quantitative data we can use questionnaire, laboratory measurements and document review also observations.

I think it is really important to have good tools because they will be used to keep the data stored and available for the rest of the stakeholders

I think it is really important to have good tools because they will be used to keep the data stored and available for the rest of the stakeholders

Completely agree with you but I think they should be easy to use and maintain

The most important thing in the M&E cycle is to create data collection tools and the questionnaire. The tools has to simple and easy to use. The question should not be ambiguous.

I would only advise the data collection tool to be as brief and in as simple english as possible. I would also add on to adopt more closed ended question approach than open ended.

Anyone facing challenges in creating Data collection tools

Mobile data collection is way more better

Anyone using ODK as a data collection tool

Creating Data Collection tools is one of the most important element of M&E plan. The various tools helps an organization to measure, analyze and report the required and essential data of a project to the management and donors of the project.

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Creating data collection tools is complicated because you have to consider so many factors and questions. Different data collection tools have different levels of need and what you will be able to explain or rephrase if a participant is confused. It's also so important to pretest and have input from people within your target population so that you know you are accurately measuring what you want to measure in a culturally sound way.

data collecting tools are very important in gathering correct information that you can use in your M&E plan. the correct data tool will help you get relevant information.

i think the best tool would be interviews or surveys.

Waw! i learnt so much about this module. It was clear and easy to understand.

I think survey would be good to get a qualitative info like the level of satisfaction of a customer

Attendance also is a data collection tools?

Its important to take into account the population of participants you are planning to collect data from. This will help you to come up with a friendly tool.
Also the purpose of collecting data. Is it for weekly report or annual report. This will also help on which tool to use.
Participation tracking form is the best method, simple to use, less expensive, and saves time. The thing about this tool is you must know your indicators. And use the indicators to make a form and get it filled by participants of the project

A very helpful topic in deed. I didn't know about particpant tracking form works this better

Creating Data Collection Tools is most important part in planning process for monitoring and evaluation part. You may have adequate knowledge on the previous steps such as you may have clear project summary, well defined indicators and risk and assumptions...............however, in this stage you need to employ all your knowledge in practice to design data collection tools. Error in data collection designs can turn all your knowledge into no use and the project may suffer from inadequate information to support their success.

This module has really helped me in preparing my thesis questionnaire.

Supervisor Evaluation Form – 3 Months observation.docx

Data collection tools you choose to collect the data will depend on the type of data you plan on collecting (qualitative or quantitative) and how you plan to collect it. Some of the commonly used data collection tools are:
Questionnaires
Interviews
Observations
Archival documents and government sources
Laboratory experiments
Quasi experiment
Scales (measuring and weighing tapes)

data is very vital when doing monitoring and evaluation. It is therefore important to come up with proper data collecting tools that will enable us to collect the right data that we may need for the monitoring and evaluation process. Information on who we are collecting data from and who oversees he process is also vital in determine the kind of methods and data collection tools that we will use.

Creating proper data collection tool is key task on the process of data collection, because it affects the quality of data collected and, consequently, the quality of the results obtained. It is paramount to always consider the context in which the data collection is carried out. For each tool, there's a different method of implementation and it is important to be aware of the implementation dynamics. For example, respondants of a survey, interview or participants of a focus group may be influenced by the different etnicity of the interviewer/mediator. Often, in Africa common people may not feel at ease with white people, so maybe you should consider to implement the survey/interview/focus goup by a local collegue. Moreover, it is very important to consider the psycological reactions of people when they get inteviewed, nemed as "biases". A crucial bias is the "social desiderability bias", that is when people do not answer honestly, but (even unconsciously) they answer as they think they would please and impress the interviewer.

Great to be learning how to create data collection tools here. This has been a very worthwhile undertaking. I will want to know why it is imperative to have metadata for projects that are being implemented in one location and for a small number of beneficiaries

Good ideas presented in a beautiful format. The points you made in terms of the need for data collection is valid. Kudos

Discussion: Creating Data Collection Tools

It was indeed a great learning for me, specially designing the tools and testing the data collection tools prior to execute in the real field to collect the data. Now I am more clear about the Metadata and its importance.

Create data collecting are very useful for your project

Creating data collection is very useful for your team

When creating a data collection to tool one needs to follow certain steps an procedures before collecting the data. For instance they is need for a data collection volunteer,project coordinator to draft a form that will be used in the field to collect data. They form will help track all the activities conducted in the fields. Before a data tool is used in a field they is need for the tool to be tried before the actual event for instance we can use it on an member partaking in the project imagining that the person is the receive of microloans. Such previews will help coordinator of the projects to improve the data collecting tool.

I have created a data collection tool for my company and ready to expand, now willing to help growing organizations to develop their M and E plan thank you.

it was very direct and easy to learn.

Team leaders should aim to create a simple tool so that the participants would be able to understand and answer, but at the same time, it should be comprehensive enough to provide the organization with the data it needs

"Data collection tools" is probably the part of M&E that I am least confident about because I often feel the tools cannot collect the appropriate data as planned. What do you think is the best thing to do after using the tools and finding out they are not as effective in gathering the data we need as planned?

Data collection tools are very crucial in projects, hence, they should be carefully selected and designed. For accurate documentation and tracking of the progress of the project.

Creation of data collection is one of the most vital stages in the creation of of a M and E plan since it helps to record and monitoring of activities done in the project and whether the desired outputs or target audien are being reached

One of most popular tool is participant

for sure a data collection tool used will determine the quality of data to be collected. furthermore, testing a form is more important. i would suggest the team collecting data, if possible,to go on the field and do some sampling on the effectiveness of the form.

Effective data collection tools assures a project's success.

Creating data collection tools requires careful consideration. They are generally the backbone of a project hence the need to ensure the right information is captured

After Reading through this notes, I found it easy to create data collection tools

It is important to select tools that will suit your organization and that which will achieve the objective.

I can't wait to garner knowledge in the field of Project Management

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.

It is important to decide the tools for data collection because research is carried out in different ways and for different purposes. The objective behind data collection is to capture quality evidence that allows analysis to lead to the formulation of convincing and credible answers to the questions that have been posed.

In creating data collection tools these are to be considered .

• Identify who will use the tools:
  this will help to identify the person who will collect the data, and it depends on the project, it could be a staff member, a volunteer or a partner. while allocating who will collect data, the educational level, experience and how comfortable to use the tools has to be considered.

• Focus on essential Information
  The data has to be focus on essential information to enable complete and uncomplicated data.
  -Collect metadata. this has to do with the information the will be recorded

• Pre-test your tools: this has to do with test the tool before proper usage. eg testing a tool in thesame environment it will be use.
  -Train staff to use tools and include instruction: one dont need to assume that the tools are self explanatory, different people interpret in different ways. the staff or volunteer need to be train how to use the tools and how to communicate or respond to instruction.
  in training on how the tool should be used include
  participant tracking forms, this has to do with keeping records of the participant, and is depends on the project.
  in education, you collect record of student that attends classes, and health record of patient that visit clinic.

Data Collection Methods and Tools are really great to learn. Cant wait to practice on them.

Understanding the set indicators is very crucial to choosing the right data collection tools for a specific project.

Understanding the set indicators is very crucial to choosing the right data collection tools for a specific project.

I agree with you.

Very true!

Creating assertive, simple and effective data collection tools is important to ensure correct data collection as well as facilitating subsequent analysis. Otherwise, the impact of the project cannot be adequately measured, which will affect not only credibility with partners or investors but also its status.

I believe that designing DATA COLLECTION TOOLS are as important as being able to identify and select specific indicators that will ensure a correct monitoring and evaluation process.

This module helps to identify, define and specify a type of data collection which is one of the most important part of any monitoring and evaluation.

Not necessarily, because sometimes they take too long and you also have to consider that other similar projects already have information. Sometimes going to the books and what's already out there saves time and resources.

Effective data collection tools DO NOT ensure the success of a project, but they do guarantee accurate and effective measurement. The success of the project depends on many other factors, not just how you measure its impact and development.

Yes because it helps the team know where they are going and to have clarify and focuse on what they need to look for (search for as results).