Introduction:

In an era defined by technological advancements and data-driven decision-making, Mobile Data Collection (MDC) has emerged as a pivotal tool for organizations across diverse sectors. This comprehensive course focuses on harnessing the capabilities of leading platforms – Open Data Kit (ODK), KoboToolBox, and SurveyCTO – to empower professionals in designing, implementing, and managing effective data collection campaigns. As organizations increasingly seek streamlined and efficient data workflows, the integration of these mobile data collection tools becomes imperative for ensuring real-time access to accurate information, driving evidence-based strategies, and fostering informed decision-making.

The Significance of MDC Platforms:

Open Data Kit (ODK), KoboToolBox, and SurveyCTO stand at the forefront of the Mobile Data Collection landscape, offering powerful solutions for organizations seeking to transcend traditional data collection methods. ODK, an open-source suite, provides flexibility and customization, empowering users to design tailored forms for their unique data needs. KoboToolBox, with its user-friendly interface, facilitates seamless data collection, making it an ideal choice for projects requiring simplicity without compromising on functionality. SurveyCTO, known for its robust features and security, provides a reliable platform for organizations working with sensitive data, ensuring data integrity and compliance with ethical standards.

Course Overview:

This course is designed to equip participants with the knowledge and skills necessary to leverage ODK, KoboToolBox, and SurveyCTO effectively. From understanding the fundamentals of MDC to mastering advanced features, participants will embark on a journey that combines theoretical concepts with hands-on practical applications. Through real-world case studies and interactive exercises, this course aims to empower professionals with the expertise needed to enhance data collection processes, mitigate challenges, and unlock the full potential of mobile technologies for informed decision-making. Join us on this transformative learning experience and elevate your proficiency in Mobile Data Collection using ODK, KoboToolBox, and SurveyCTO.

Course Objectives:

1. Understand the fundamentals of Mobile Data Collection (MDC) and its significance in various sectors.
2. Proficiently use ODK, KoboToolBox, and SurveyCTO to design, deploy, and manage data collection forms.
3. Implement best practices in data security and quality assurance during field data collection.
4. Explore advanced features and customization options within ODK, KoboToolBox, and SurveyCTO.
5. Develop skills in data analysis and visualization using the collected data.
6. Effectively troubleshoot common issues encountered during mobile data collection.
7. Foster collaboration and teamwork through shared data collection projects.
8. Integrate MDC tools with other data management systems for seamless workflows.
9. Understand ethical considerations and privacy concerns related to mobile data collection.
10. Gain hands-on experience through practical case studies and real-world scenarios.

Organization Benefits:

1. Improved efficiency in data collection processes, leading to quicker decision-making.
2. Enhanced data accuracy and reliability through the use of advanced MDC tools.
3. Cost savings by reducing the need for manual data entry and paperwork.
4. Increased transparency and accountability in data collection and reporting.
5. Better project management and planning based on timely and accurate data.
6. Streamlined collaboration among team members through shared platforms.
7. Strengthened organizational capacity in utilizing modern data collection technologies.
8. Adherence to ethical standards and data privacy regulations in data collection practices.
9. Reduced margin of error through systematic quality assurance measures.
10. Empowered staff with valuable skills in MDC for future projects.

Target Participants:

This course is designed for professionals and decision-makers across various sectors, including NGOs, government agencies, researchers, and field workers. Individuals involved in data collection, project management, and decision-making processes will benefit from gaining practical skills in using ODK, KoboToolBox, and SurveyCTO.

Module 1: Introduction to Mobile Data Collection (MDC)

1. Overview of MDC in various sectors
2. Importance and benefits of MDC
3. Comparison of traditional and mobile data collection methods
4. Case studies showcasing successful MDC implementations
5. Ethical considerations in MDC
6. Introduction to ODK, KoboToolBox, and SurveyCTO
7. Selecting the appropriate tool for specific project requirements
8. Understanding the data lifecycle in MDC
9. Security measures for protecting collected data
10. Hands-on: Setting up accounts and familiarization with the platforms.

Module 2: Fundamentals of ODK, KoboToolBox, and SurveyCTO

1. In-depth exploration of ODK, KoboToolBox, and SurveyCTO features
2. Creating and managing user accounts
3. Overview of the form-building interface
4. Basic settings and functionalities for form design
5. Collecting and submitting data using mobile devices
6. Offline data collection capabilities
7. Data synchronization and submission
8. Practical exercise: Building a simple form in each platform
9. Troubleshooting common issues
10. Q&A and discussion on platform-specific features.

Module 3: Form Design and Customization

1. Advanced form design principles
2. Logic and skip patterns in form design
3. Question types and their applications
4. Relevance constraints and validation criteria
5. Cascading selects for dynamic data collection
6. Incorporating multimedia elements in forms
7. Advanced form settings and properties
8. Testing forms on mobile devices
9. Practical exercise: Designing a complex form with skip patterns
10. Q&A and peer review of form designs.

Module 4: Data Collection in the Field

1. Planning and preparing for field data collection
2. Data collection protocols and standard operating procedures
3. Training field enumerators and data collectors
4. Data collection best practices
5. Monitoring and supervision during fieldwork
6. Real-time tracking of data collection progress
7. Offline data collection strategies
8. Field data validation techniques
9. Practical exercise: Simulated field data collection
10. Feedback and improvement discussions.

Module 5: Data Quality Assurance and Validation

1. Quality assurance principles in MDC
2. Real-time data validation and error checking
3. Automated data validation rules
4. Managing and resolving data discrepancies
5. Data cleaning and validation best practices
6. Advanced quality control measures
7. Integration with external validation tools
8. Practical exercise: Implementing validation rules in forms
9. Peer review and feedback on data quality practices
10. Q&A and troubleshooting session.

Module 6: Advanced Features and Customization

1. Advanced features and functionalities of ODK, KoboToolBox, and SurveyCTO
2. Custom scripting and automation options
3. Integration with external systems and databases
4. Advanced form logic and calculations
5. Designing dynamic and adaptive forms
6. Advanced multimedia usage in forms
7. Advanced data submission options
8. Practical exercise: Implementing advanced features in a form
9. Case study: Customization for specific project needs
10. Q&A and troubleshooting session.

Module 7: Data Analysis and Visualization

1. Exporting and analyzing collected data
2. Overview of data analysis tools and software
3. Creating charts and graphs from collected data
4. Advanced data visualization techniques
5. Data interpretation and drawing insights
6. Communicating findings effectively
7. Integration with external data analysis tools
8. Practical exercise: Analyzing and visualizing collected data
9. Case study: Decision-making based on analyzed data
10. Q&A and discussion on data analysis strategies.

Module 8: Troubleshooting and Support

1. Common issues encountered in MDC
2. Troubleshooting techniques for ODK, KoboToolBox, and SurveyCTO
3. User support and community resources
4. Managing platform updates and changes
5. Strategies for resolving field issues remotely
6. Best practices for user support and communication
7. Practical exercise: Troubleshooting simulated issues
8. Peer review of troubleshooting approaches
9. Q&A and discussion on real-world troubleshooting scenarios
10. Wrap-up and summary of support strategies.

Module 9: Integration with Other Systems

1. Overview of integration possibilities
2. Data interoperability between MDC platforms
3. Integration with external databases and systems
4. API usage for seamless data exchange
5. Connecting MDC platforms with data analysis tools
6. Case study: Successful integration in a large-scale project
7. Practical exercise: Setting up an integration scenario
8. Peer review and feedback on integration exercises
9. Q&A and discussion on potential challenges
10. Closing remarks on the importance of integration.

Module 10: Ethical Considerations in MDC

1. Privacy and confidentiality in data collection
2. Informed consent and participant rights
3. Cultural considerations in MDC
4. Ethical implications of data use and sharing
5. Safeguarding against bias and discrimination
6. Ensuring data security and integrity
7. Ethical review processes and approvals
8. Practical exercise: Ethical scenario analysis
9. Peer review and discussion on ethical considerations
10. Course conclusion and certification details.

General Information

1. Customized Training: All our courses can be tailored to meet the specific needs of participants.
2. Language Proficiency: Participants should have a good command of the English language.
3. Comprehensive Learning: Our training includes well-structured presentations, practical exercises, web-based tutorials, and collaborative group work. Our facilitators are seasoned experts with over a decade of experience.
4. Certification: Upon successful completion of training, participants will receive a certificate from Foscore Development Center (FDC-K).
5. Training Locations: Training sessions are conducted at Foscore Development Center (FDC-K) centers. We also offer options for in-house and online training, customized to the client's schedule.
6. Flexible Duration: Course durations are adaptable, and content can be adjusted to fit the required number of days.
7. Onsite Training Inclusions: The course fee for onsite training covers facilitation, training materials, two coffee breaks, a buffet lunch, and a Certificate of Successful Completion. Participants are responsible for their travel expenses, airport transfers, visa applications, dinners, health/accident insurance, and personal expenses.
8. Additional Services: Accommodation, pickup services, freight booking, and visa processing arrangements are available upon request at discounted rates.
9. Equipment: Tablets and laptops can be provided to participants at an additional cost.
10. Post-Training Support: We offer one year of free consultation and coaching after the course.
11. Group Discounts: Register as a group of more than two and enjoy a discount ranging from 10% to 50%.
12. Payment Terms: Payment should be made before the commencement of the training or as mutually agreed upon, to the Foscore Development Center account. This ensures better preparation for your training.
13. Contact Us: For any inquiries, please reach out to us at training@fdc-k.org or call us at +254712260031.
14. Website: Visit our website at www.fdc-k.org for more information.