OPEN DATA KIT (ODK) COURSE – Mobile Data Collection

ODK is a set of open source applications which allow one to create a questionnaire form in the Xform format, fill
it out on a mobile phone or tablet running the Android operating system, store and view the aggregated
information on a central server, and retrieve the aggregated data to one’s computer for analysis. Data capture
includes GPS coordinates for real-time mapping of responses in Google Maps, or near-real time once the surveyor
has an Internet connection to send the collected forms back to the server.

WHY THIS ODK COURSE?

Whether you’re a seasoned mobile apps user or new to mobile apps especially for data collection, this course will
allow you to quickly get grips on with ODK for both simple and more complex tasks during your data
management process.
This course also plays a vital role in minimizing both time and resources used right from data collection all through
the data management process and also make analyses easier.

ABOUT THE COURSE:

Capturing data in the field usually means using paper. By using an Android smartphone or an Android tablet, field
data can be collected with all the advantages that electronic data gathering brings (value input control, skipping
irrelevant sections, elimination of transcribing errors from paper, etc.). Data is gathered in situ with the data
records stored on the device. Once the surveyor is within range of a WiFi or mobile phone data connection,
he/she can send the data to a central server.

GOOLEE is providing support for core and custom development on the Open Data Kit platform. This course
will cover the foundations of how to develop such applications and involves lectures with slides, hands-on
computer exercises, hands-on tablet/phone exercises and use of other PC applications.

COURSE GOAL:

The goal of this course is to give the participant the ability to put in place all the pieces required for a mobile data
collection system using ODK.

Knowledge & Skills for efficiency and productivity in development

OBJECTIVES OF THE COURSE:

 To enable the individual to create X-forms compliant questionnaire using three different applications which will
include skip logic, graphical questions, cascading question types, input value control, multiple languages, media
and geo-location input.
 To enable participant to install and manage a central server on the Windows platform to aggregate the data
or use one of the free on-line storage services.
 To enable the participant learn how to set the various parameters of the Android application for optimal
usage.

COURSE CONTENT:

The course is organized in modules and each module covers a reasonable content to enable participants connect
and progress successively in the next modules.

Module 1: Introduction to mobile phone data collection

Module 2: Setting up aggregate server with Google App Engine
Module 3: Designing & building a form using ODK build
Module 4: Uploading the form to aggregate & send to Android phone
Module 5: Setting server preference on android phone
Module 6: Data collection
 Enter primary field data
 capture GPS coordinates,
 take photos, record audio sounds and videos
Module 7: Submitting completed data to aggregate server
Module 8: Exporting data from ODK aggregate as CSV
Module 9: Importing ODK - CSV file into statistical applications
Module 10: Exporting GPS data for Mapping/Visualizing (fusion map)

COURSE OUTCOMES:

By the end of the course, the participant should be able to:

 explain the purpose of ODK

 use each of the tools of ODK set of applications
 create a questionnaire form using three different applications
 manage the aggregate central server in terms of users, rights, form uploads/downloads, filters and exports
 read and modify and/or debug a form in its XML format
 download, use and set the parameters of ODK collect for optimal use
 incorporate advanced form features such as picture questions, cascading, repeat groups, multilingualism,
calculated variables, photo and sound variables, and graphic annotation
 geotag forms and visualize them on a map

Knowledge & Skills for efficiency and productivity in development

WHAT YOU REQUIRE:

Interested organizations/institutions/individuals are expected to have laptops and a solid level of general computer
literacy, fluency with Microsoft Excel or similar spreadsheet application. No prior experience in ODK is required.

DURATION:

This is 3 days training program.

VENUE:

The course will take place in Nairobi at our GOOLEE training suite. However, organizations that prefer to host
this event at their preferred location are encouraged to apply for the tailored arrangement.

COST:

The course fee is $360 per person (break tea and lunch are provided). For client hosted trainings with participants
more than 10, a discount of 15% applies.

HOW TO REGISTER:

Interested participants should apply by email to capacitydevt@gooleeinstitute.com

For further inquiries you can also call on: +254 721445293

Note:

The class size is limited to 10 participants to ensure that each participant has the opportunity to interact with the
facilitator. You are advised to register two weeks in advance before the training start date for adequate preparation.

Knowledge & Skills for efficiency and productivity in development