Mobile Data Collection using ODK and KoboToolBox for Monitoring and Evaluation Course

Introduction

The Mobile Data Collection using ODK and KoBoToolbox for Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) Course is designed to empower professionals with practical skills in digital data collection tools tailored to monitoring and evaluation needs. This course bridges the gap between traditional paper-based surveys and modern mobile technology by introducing participants to Open Data Kit (ODK) and KoBoToolbox two powerful, open-source platforms used globally for field data collection.

The course begins by exploring the fundamentals of mobile-based data collection and how these tools can enhance M&E practices. Participants will learn how to design dynamic and logic-driven digital questionnaires using XLSForm, and how to deploy them through ODK Collect and KoBoToolbox for both online and offline use. Emphasis is placed on data quality assurance, real-time monitoring, and the integration of multimedia inputs such as GPS coordinates, photos, and barcodes to enrich field data.

Participants will gain hands-on experience setting up data collection workflows, managing submissions, and exporting and cleaning datasets for analysis. The course also focuses on the unique needs of M&E professionals, such as baseline and endline surveys, indicator tracking, and rapid assessments. Practical examples, case studies, and field simulations will be used to build confidence in implementing digital M&E systems in various contexts.

By the end of the course, participants will be equipped to independently plan and manage mobile data collection exercises that support efficient, evidence-based monitoring and evaluation. This training is ideal for M&E officers, project managers, data analysts, researchers, field coordinators, and anyone involved in collecting and using data to assess project performance and impact.

Duration

5 days

Course Objectives

By the end of this course the learners should be able to:

·       To introduce participants to mobile-based data collection concepts and how they enhance efficiency and accuracy in M&E processes.

·       To equip learners with practical skills to design digital survey forms using XLSForm, incorporating logic, constraints, GPS, multimedia, and multilingual features.

·       To train participants in configuring, deploying, and managing digital data collection tools using ODK Collect and KoBoToolbox.

·       To enable participants to conduct field data collection both online and offline, ensuring secure and reliable submissions.

·       To build capacity in managing, exporting, and cleaning field data for use in analysis and reporting.

·       To demonstrate how mobile tools can support real-time monitoring, indicator tracking, and performance evaluation in development projects.

·       To promote ethical practices in digital data collection, including informed consent, privacy, and data protection.

·       To empower M&E professionals to integrate mobile data collection solutions into their program workflows for improved decision-making and impact measurement.

Who should Attend?

This course is ideal for

·       Monitoring and Evaluation (M&E) professionals seeking to modernize data collection and streamline project tracking processes.

·       Project and Program Managers involved in designing and overseeing field data collection activities.

·       Researchers and Data Analysts conducting surveys, assessments, or field-based studies in development, health, education, and other sectors.

·       Humanitarian and Development Workers responsible for needs assessments, baseline surveys, or rapid evaluations.

·       Field Supervisors and Enumerators tasked with managing and collecting data using mobile tools.

·       ICT Officers and Data Management Personnel supporting the deployment and maintenance of mobile data platforms.

·       Consultants and Freelancers working in monitoring, evaluation, research, or data collection roles across diverse sectors.

Course Outline

Module 1: Introduction to Mobile Data Collection for M&E

• Overview of monitoring and evaluation (M&E) principles
• Role of data in M&E: indicators, baselines, and tracking
• Challenges of traditional data collection methods
• Benefits and applications of mobile data collection in M&E
• Comparison of mobile data collection platforms: ODK vs. KoBoToolbox

Module 2: Overview of ODK and KoBoToolbox Ecosystems

• Introduction to the ODK and KoBoToolbox platforms
• Key components: ODK Collect, KoBoCollect, Enketo, ODK Central, and KoBoToolbox Server
• Understanding data flow: from form design to reporting
• Real-world use cases in humanitarian, development, and research contexts

Module 3: Designing Digital Forms with XLSForm

• Introduction to XLSForm structure: survey, choices, and settings sheets
• Creating questions: single choice, multiple choice, numeric, text, GPS, image, barcode
• Adding skip logic, constraints, and calculations
• Multilingual support and metadata fields
• Form validation and testing before deployment

Module 4: Building and Deploying Forms Using KoBoToolbox

• Using the KoBoToolbox online form builder
• Uploading XLSForms to the KoBoToolbox platform
• Managing user roles, permissions, and form settings
• Deploying forms and managing versions
• Previewing and testing surveys

Module 5: Configuring ODK Collect and KoBoCollect for Field Use

• Installing and configuring ODK Collect or KoBoCollect on Android devices
• Linking the app to the server (ODK Central or KoBoToolbox)
• Downloading, filling, and submitting forms
• Offline data collection and synchronization
• Mobile device management and troubleshooting

Module 6: Managing and Monitoring Field Data

• Monitoring incoming data submissions in real-time
• Managing data collectors and survey progress
• Reviewing and editing submitted records
• Ensuring data quality and consistency during collection
• Managing form updates in ongoing surveys

Module 7: Exporting, Cleaning, and Preparing Data for Analysis

• Exporting data in various formats (CSV, Excel, SPSS, Stata, etc.)
• Cleaning raw data: common issues and solutions
• Preparing datasets for indicator reporting and analysis
• Using basic data analysis tools (Excel, Power BI, Google Sheets)
• Linking data with GIS tools for spatial visualization (optional intro)

Module 8: Best Practices and Ethical Considerations

• Ethical data collection: informed consent and data privacy
• Data security and backup strategies
• Lessons learned from field deployments
• Case studies of successful M&E data collection projects
• Developing standard operating procedures for digital M&E systems

Training Approach

This course will be delivered by our skilled trainers who have vast knowledge and experience as expert professionals in the fields. The course is taught in English and through a mix of theory, practical activities, group discussion and case studies. Course manuals and additional training materials will be provided to the participants upon completion of the training.

Tailor-Made Course

This course can also be tailor-made to meet organization requirement. For further inquiries, please contact us on: Email: training@upskilldevelopment.com Tel: +254 721 331 808

Training Venue

The training will be held at our Upskill Training Centre. We also offer training for a group at requested location all over the world. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments, and buffet lunch.

Visa application, travel expenses, airport transfers, dinners, accommodation, insurance, and other personal expenses are catered by the participant

Certification

Participants will be issued with Upskill certificate upon completion of this course.

Airport Pickup and Accommodation

Airport pickup and accommodation is arranged upon request. For booking contact our Training Coordinator through Email: training@upskilldevelopment.com, +254 721 331 808

Terms of Payment

Unless otherwise agreed between the two parties payment of the course fee should be done 3 working days before commencement of the training so as to enable us to prepare better.