3.10 Data-Collection Methods and Tools
Expected time: 15 minutes
Collecting data requires appropriate data-collection tools, such as an abstraction form, for recording information.
Methods
The two most commonly used collection methods are paper-based and electronic recording.
- Paper-based methods are still widely used for vital registration, surveillance and research purposes.
- Potential advantages:
- May be cost-effective for low-resource settings
- Potential disadvantages:
- More prone to human error, since transcription is required
- Requires more time to collect and transfer data
- Potential advantages:
- Electronic methods are improving as technology evolves. The ideal electronic collection tool should be able to collect data and provide data securely to a data management centre for storage and analysis.
- Potential advantages:
- Improves record accuracy
- Allows quick data transfer to a data management centre
- Identifies missing data in a timely manner
- Ability to take and transfer digital photographs
- Potential disadvantages:
- More vulnerable to theft
- Can compromise privacy/security if data are not encrypted
- Requires training on how to use an electronic system
- Potential advantages:
Resources
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