Training Course on Mobile Data Collection Using EpiCollect

Program Brief

EpiCollect is a free and open-source mobile data collection tool designed for field researchers, health professionals, environmental scientists, and other sectors requiring efficient and flexible data collection. With EpiCollect, users can design and deploy surveys, collect data via mobile devices, and manage datasets in real-time without needing advanced technical skills. This course on Mobile Data Collection Using EpiCollect equips participants with the knowledge to utilize this tool for building mobile surveys, capturing data and managing it for analysis, making field data collection seamless and efficient.

Course Objectives

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

• Understand the key concepts of mobile data collection and the advantages of using EpiCollect.
• Create, deploy, and manage mobile surveys using the EpiCollect platform.
• Collect, view, and manage data in real-time using mobile devices.
• Export and analyze collected data for reporting and decision-making.
• Troubleshoot common challenges in mobile data collection using EpiCollect.
• Ensure data quality, security, and integrity in field data collection operations.

Recommended For;

This course is ideal for:

• Field Researchers and Data Analysts
• Public Health Professionals and Epidemiologists
• Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Officers
• Environmental Scientists and Conservationists
• NGOs and Humanitarian Aid Workers
• IT professionals supporting field data collection systems
• Project managers conducting field surveys and evaluations

Duration

5 days

Course Content

Introduction to Mobile Data Collection and EpiCollect

• Overview of mobile data collection concepts and benefits
• Introduction to EpiCollect: Features, capabilities, and use cases
• EpiCollect5 platform: Web and mobile interfaces
• Examples of sectors using EpiCollect for data collection (health, environment, etc.)

Setting Up EpiCollect for Data Collection

• Creating an EpiCollect project account
• Navigating the EpiCollect web and mobile app interfaces
• Overview of the project setup and survey design process
• Understanding project sharing and access control settings

Designing Surveys in EpiCollect

• Creating survey forms using EpiCollect’s web-based form designer
• Designing different question types (text, numerical, multiple-choice, date, GPS, etc.)
• Implementing skip logic and validation rules to ensure data quality
• Adding multimedia elements (photos, videos, audio) to your forms
• Customizing forms to suit project requirements

Deploying Surveys for Mobile Data Collection

• Assigning surveys to field users and configuring roles
• Synchronizing and downloading survey forms on mobile devices
• Offline and online data collection using the EpiCollect mobile app
• Managing devices and monitoring data collection in real-time
• Sending survey updates and syncing data from mobile to the cloud

Managing Data Collection in Real-Time

• Monitoring field activities and data submission progress
• Viewing data submissions on EpiCollect’s web platform
• Editing and reviewing submitted data for accuracy and completeness
• Setting up real-time alerts and notifications for data updates
• Case management and longitudinal studies using EpiCollect

Exporting and Analyzing Data

• Exporting collected data in formats such as CSV, Excel, or JSON for analysis
• Integrating EpiCollect with external analysis tools (e.g., R, Stata, SPSS, Power BI)
• Visualizing collected data using EpiCollect’s built-in mapping and graphing tools
• Generating reports and dashboards from collected field data
• Data cleaning techniques to ensure high data quality

Data Security and Privacy in EpiCollect

• Implementing data privacy regulations (GDPR, HIPAA) using EpiCollect
• Ensuring secure data collection, transmission, and storage
• Managing access control and permissions for field data collectors
• Best practices for safeguarding sensitive data during fieldwork
• Encryption of data during transmission between devices and cloud storage

Troubleshooting and Technical Support

• Common challenges in mobile data collection and how to resolve them
• Troubleshooting issues with survey forms, mobile devices, and data syncing
• Accessing EpiCollect community forums and support resources
• Managing device settings, battery usage, and optimizing field operations

Case Studies and Practical Exercises

• Hands-on practice in designing and deploying a mobile survey using EpiCollect
• Simulating data collection in the field using the mobile app
• Reviewing and analyzing sample data collected during the practical sessions
• Case studies showcasing the successful use of EpiCollect in various sectors, including public health, environmental research, and social surveys

Advanced Features of EpiCollect

• Using GPS and location-based data collection for mapping
• Creating QR codes and barcodes for more efficient data entry
• Implementing case tracking for follow-up surveys
• Configuring multiple forms for complex data collection projects
• Setting up EpiCollect for multi-user, multi-team data collection projects

General remarks

• Customizable courses are available to address the specific needs of your organization.
• The participant must be conversant in English
• Participants who successfully complete this course will receive a certificate of completion from Lenol Development Center.
• The course fee for onsite training includes facilitation training materials, tea break and lunch.
• Accommodation and airport pick up are made upon request
• For any inquiries reach us through info@lenoldevelopmentcenter.com or +254 710 314 746
• Payment should be made to our bank account before the start of training