Course Overview

Step into the future of data collection with our cutting-edge training focused on Mobile Data Collection (MDC) using Open Data Kit (ODK). This 5-day course is designed to empower you with the skills to efficiently author, field, and manage mobile data collection platforms, eliminating the need for paper-based methods. Gain hands-on experience in creating survey forms, managing data through mobile devices, and analyzing results effectively. Perfect for organizational staff involved in field data collection, this course will transform the way you handle data.

Course Objectives:

By the end of this training, participants will be able to:

• Create Survey Forms: Design forms using Build or XLSForms.
• Manage Data Collection: Upload forms to an Aggregate server and manage data on Android devices.
• Analyze Data: Export and analyze collected data using ODK Aggregate.

Who Should Attend?

• Field Data Collectors: Organizational staff involved in field data activities.
• Project Managers: Overseeing data collection processes.
• Researchers: Engaged in data-driven studies.

Course Outline:

Module 1: Introduction to Mobile Data Collection

• Understanding MDC: Learn the fundamentals of mobile data collection.
• Platforms Overview: Explore different platforms for MDC.
• Advantages and Challenges: Understand the benefits and hurdles of using mobile applications.

Module 2: Introduction to Open Data Kit (ODK)

• ODK Components: Discover the key components like ODK Form, Collect, Aggregate, and Manage.
• ODK Installation: Learn how to download and install ODK Collect on mobile phones.

Module 3: Designing and Creating Forms

• Form Creation: Use Excel, ODK Build, Koboform, and PurcForms to create data collection forms.
• XLSForm Syntax: Master the syntax for creating XLSForms.

Module 4: ODK Collect and Aggregate

• ODK Collect Setup: Install and configure ODK Collect, manage forms, and follow best practices.
• ODK Aggregate Server: Set up and configure a server using Google App Engine, and manage data submissions.

Module 5: Visualizing Geographic Data

• Data Exportation: Learn to export data to Google Spreadsheets, Fusion Tables, and QGIS.
• Mapping and Visualization: Use GPS data for mapping and visualizing geographic data.