Mobile Data Collection for M&E using ODK and KoBoToolbox Course.

Introduction

Mobile data collection has revolutionized Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) by providing efficient, accurate, and real-time data capture. This course equips participants with practical skills to leverage mobile technologies for effective M&E, using ODK (Open Data Kit) and KoBoToolbox.

Participants will learn to design digital surveys and data collection instruments tailored to program objectives. Emphasis is placed on translating M&E indicators into user-friendly mobile forms that ensure reliable and high-quality data.

The course covers data management workflows, including offline data capture, synchronization, cleaning, and storage. Participants will learn best practices for handling large datasets securely while maintaining data integrity and confidentiality.

Real-time reporting and dashboards are central to modern M&E. Participants will gain hands-on experience in visualizing and analyzing collected data, generating actionable insights, and supporting evidence-based decision-making.

Advanced topics include integrating GPS, multimedia, and sensor data into surveys, automating data validation, and creating dynamic forms for adaptive fieldwork. Participants will also learn troubleshooting and optimizing mobile data collection processes.

By the end of the course, participants will be able to design, implement, and manage mobile data collection projects using ODK and KoBoToolbox, improve data quality, and enhance reporting and learning processes for improved program performance.

Who Should Attend

• Monitoring and Evaluation Officers
• Program and Project Managers
• Data Analysts and Reporting Officers
• Field Supervisors and Enumerators
• NGO and Development Organization Executives
• Research and Survey Specialists
• Policy Analysts and Consultants
• Data Quality Assurance Officers
• ICT Officers supporting M&E systems
• Professionals involved in program monitoring and learning

Duration

5 Days

Course Objectives

• Master mobile data collection principles using ODK and KoBoToolbox
• Learn to design digital surveys and data collection instruments
• Gain expertise in data management, cleaning, and validation
• Develop capacity for offline and online data capture
• Learn to integrate GPS, multimedia, and sensor data into surveys
• Gain skills in real-time data reporting and dashboard creation
• Learn to troubleshoot and optimize mobile data collection workflows
• Enhance ability to visualize and analyze data for decision-making
• Learn best practices for data security, integrity, and confidentiality
• Gain knowledge of emerging trends in mobile M&E data collection

Comprehensive Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Mobile Data Collection

• Principles of mobile data collection for M&E
• Advantages over traditional methods
• Key concepts in ODK and KoBoToolbox
• Emerging trends in mobile data collection

Module 2: Designing Digital Surveys

• Translating M&E indicators into questions
• Form types and question logic
• Skip patterns and validations
• Piloting and testing surveys

Module 3: Setting up ODK and KoBoToolbox

• Installation and configuration
• User account setup and roles
• Project and form creation
• Synchronization and offline setup

Module 4: Data Collection Techniques

• Mobile app navigation and field operations
• Assigning surveys to enumerators
• GPS and multimedia data capture
• Ensuring data completeness and accuracy

Module 5: Data Management and Validation

• Uploading and synchronizing data
• Cleaning and validating datasets
• Managing duplicates and errors
• Data storage and backup best practices

Module 6: Real-Time Monitoring and Dashboards

• Creating visual dashboards
• KPI tracking and analysis
• Automated reports generation
• Data visualization best practices

Module 7: Advanced Survey Features

• Conditional logic and dynamic forms
• Using sensors and multimedia inputs
• Automating validation checks
• Complex data collection scenarios

Module 8: Troubleshooting and Optimization

• Common mobile data collection issues
• Performance optimization
• Device and network management
• Quality assurance strategies

Module 9: Ethics, Security, and Confidentiality

• Data protection principles
• Informed consent in mobile surveys
• Anonymization and secure storage
• Compliance with organizational policies

Module 10: Emerging Topics and Case Studies

• Integrating ODK/KoBo with other M&E tools
• Mobile data collection for large-scale surveys
• Lessons from successful implementations
• Innovations and future trends in mobile M&E

Training Approach

The instructor led trainings are delivered using a blended learning approach and comprises of presentations, guided sessions of practical exercise, web-based tutorials and group work. Our facilitators are seasoned industry experts with years of experience, working as professional and trainers in these fields.

All facilitation and course materials will be offered in English. The participants should be reasonably proficient in English.

Certification

Upon successful completion of the training, participants will be awarded a certificate of completion by Steady Development Center.

Training Venue

The training will be held online. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, tutorials and all required training manuals. Any other personal expenses are catered by the participant.
For registration and further enquiries, contact us on:

• Tel: +254 701 180 097
• Email: training@steadytrainingcenter.com

Tailor-Made Option

This course can be customized to suit the specific needs of your organization and be delivered on-line to any convenient location.

Terms Of Payment

Upon agreement by both parties’ payment should be made to Steady Development Center’s official account at least 3 working days before training begins to facilitate adequate preparation.

Our Upcoming Training Schedule