3.10 Data-Collection Methods and Tools

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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
  • 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

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Table of Contents

  1. Module 3: Introduction to Surveillance Approaches
  2. 3.1 Epidemiology
  3. 3.2 Population Coverage
  4. 3.3 Case Ascertainment
  5. 3.4 Case-Finding
  6. 3.5 Case Inclusion
  7. 3.6 Inclusion Criteria
  8. 3.7 Inclusion of Pregnancy Outcomes
  9. 3.8 Description Formats for Congenital Anomalies
  10. 3.9 Core Ascertainment Variables
  11. ›3.10 Data-Collection Methods and Tools
  12. 3.11 Data Collection/Management
  13. 3.12 Data-Management Protocol
  14. 3.13 Data Analysis
  15. 3.14 Data Dissemination
  16. 3.15 Evaluation Questions 3