Designing data collection tools
Presenter : Dr. Karan Suneja (JR2)
Moderator: Dr. Shoebul Haque (SR)
Peer support : Dr C. Vignesh (JR2)
Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics
King George’s Medical University Lucknow, U.P., India
E-mail: drkarankgmu@gmail.com
Contents
• Introduction
• Types of data collection tools
• Key elements
• Components
• Summary
• References
Specific learning objectives
By the end of this teaching learning session audience will be able to :
• Define data and its collection
• Enumerate different tools for collection
• Enumerate components and testing methods
• Describe WHO data collection tools
Introduction
• Data word derived from ‘datum’
• Observable and measurable facts that provide information
about the phenomenon under study
• Data collection : process by which the researcher collect the
information needed to answer the research problems
Types
of
data
Qualitative
Quantitative
Primary
Secondary
Qualitative data
• Non-numerical and usually ordinal or nominal in nature
• Aims to address the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of study
• Includes focus groups discussions and in-depth interviews
https://images.app.goo.gl/THhBBArbrMnnK2F58
Quantitative data
• Numerical in nature and can be mathematically computed
• Divided into discrete and continuous
• Aims to address ‘how much, how often’ of the study
https://images.app.goo.gl/THhBBArbrMnnK2F58
Example of qualitative vs quantitative data
Data unit Numeric variable Quantitative
data
A person How many children
do you have?
2 children
How much do you
earn?
Rs.60,000 per
month
How many hours
do you work?
40 hours per
week
Data unit Categorical
variable
Qualitative
data
A person In which country
you were born?
India
What is your
occupation?
Teacher
Do you work full-
time or part-
time?
Full-time
Primary Data
• Data collected for the first time
• Collected directly from target population
• Example: market research and student thesis
https://images.app.goo.gl/uAHEDjQxmh7hVWdAA
Secondary Data
• Data collected through primary sources
• Easier to collect
• Eg: review articles, newsletters, WHO reports
https://images.app.goo.gl/uAHEDjQxmh7hVWdAA
Primary data Secondary data
Real time data Past data
Always specific to the
researcher needs
Not specific
Expensive Low cost
Excellent data quality Data quality not up to the mark
More time consuming Less time consuming
Capable of solving a specific
problem
Less capable
Advantages and disadvantages
Data collection tools
• Instruments or aids used for the purpose of collecting and recording the
data
• Depends on the type of research method
• Examples : Types of
method
Tools for data
collection
Questioning 1.Questionnaire
2. Visual analogue
scale
Different tools for collection of data
1. Abstraction form : Review of records
• Personal records
• Clinical records
• Surveillance records
• Registers
Patient’s diary in a clinical trial, where they note
their symptoms and medicine intake
Electronic health records of patient
Government reports on dengue cases in different regions
A cancer registry storing patient details, treatments, and survival rates
(NCRP)
De Angelis G, Cimon K, Sinclair A, et al. Monitoring for Atrial Fibrillation in Discharged Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack Patients: A Clinical and Cost-Effectiveness Analysis and Review of Patient Preferences [Internet]. Ottawa (ON):
Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health; 2016 Mar. (CADTH Optimal Use Report, No. 5.2b.) Appendix 4, Data Abstraction Form — Clinical Review.Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK362764/
2. Structured observation guide
• Used in documenting certain process and in depth interviews
• Checklist required such as texts and figures
Example: observation of healthcare centre for
TB services
TB screening
Lab tests
Anti-Tb treatment
Awareness
Questionnaire
• Interview - administered
• Computer assisted
• Self-administered
https://images.app.goo.gl/wwvRz4CcPNdRnNJb6
Information collected with data collection tools
Key elements of data collection tools
Clarity of data obtained
Comphrensiveness of responses in terms of
categories
Constraints in responses of what information
could get collected
Context of questions
Utility of the instructions
Order of questions
Components of data collection tools
1.Introduction
Presentation
Objectives
Informed
consent
Concluding
statements
2.Identifiers
Actual
Coded
3.Instructions
General
Skip patterns
4.Body of the
instrument
(questions)
Open item
open question open
answer
open question closed
answer
Closed item
dichotomous
multiple
option
single
answer
multiple
answers
quantitative
answer
Semi open
items
1. An investigator wanted to study the clinical profile of patients presented with
foreign body in nose, attended in the emergency department in the last 2 years
in a hospital. Which of the following is the most suitable way to collect data?
Ans : Review of records
2. The options are not provided in which type of questions?
Ans: Open ended
3. In which type of questions other answers can be added?
Ans: Semi-open questions
4. Creation of continuous variables as responses is allowed in ?
Ans: Closed question
Questions
• Write short and precise questions
• Use simple words of every day language
• Avoid negatives and double negatives
• Ask only one question at the time
• Specificity
• Use of neutral tone to avoid influence
Formulating the questions
Eg : What is the effect of regular physiotherapy on
pain relief in patients with chronic sciatica?
Avoids unnecessary words while maintaining clarity
Common terms like "regular physiotherapy" and "pain relief"
instead of complex
No confusing phrases like "Does lack of physiotherapy increase
pain?"
Focuses only on the effect of physiotherapy on pain, not other
factors
Clearly defines the population (patients with chronic sciatica),
intervention (regular physiotherapy), and outcome (pain relief)
without bias.
Sorting the order of questions
• From simple to complicated
• General to specific
• Casual to intimate
• Group together questions on same topic
• Chronological order
• Identification questions at the beginning or end
• Simplifying complex questions
Eg: Patient Experience with Chronic Sciatica
Management
Do you currently take any medications for pain relief?
How effective do you find your current pain management
regimen in controlling your sciatica symptoms?
How long have you experienced sciatica symptoms?
What treatments have you tried for sciatica?
What is your average pain level on a scale of 1 to 10?
What strategies do you use to manage your pain?
Have you missed work due to sciatica pain?
How does sciatica pain affect your personal relationships or
emotional well-being?
When did you first notice your sciatica symptoms ?
How have your symptoms changed over time?
Original: How would you evaluate the effectiveness of various therapeutic
interventions on your quality of life and pain management, considering both
pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches?
Simplified: How do different treatments (like medications or physical therapy)
affect your pain and daily life?
What is your age?
What is your gender?
Laying out the data collection tool
• Created after sorting the order of questions
• Influences responses of participants
• Splitting of sections
• Whole page question
• Spacing between questions
• Usage of large fonts
• Alignment and numbering
• Standardize coding of response
• Auto- coding
Example :
Finalizing the data collection tool
• Checking the instrument against the objectives/analysis plan
• Reviewing of the data collection tool
• Language of the instrument
Pilot testing
• Check whether instrument is clear, understandable and acceptable
• Check flow and skip pattern
• Check pertinence of coding
• Estimate time needed
• Pilot test with a few volunteers
Designing of health research tool
Decide how to measure the concepts
Relate concepts to study design and objectives
Match the scale for measures chosen to analysis plan
Ensure reliability and validity of measures
Choose most appropriate method of data collection
Tailor the measures to the study participants
Decide how best to ask the actual questions
SCORE (survey, count,
optimize, review, enable)
RHIS (Routine health
information system)
STEPS WHO survey plus
WHO data
collection tools
Summary
• Most commonly 4 types of data i.e. primary, secondary, qualitative and quantitative
• Data collection tools are important for efficient management of data
• Main tools are abstract forms, structured observation and questionnaire
• Information obtained on basis of facts, knowledge and judgements
• Components are introduction, identifiers, instructions and body of instrument
• Pilot testing is critical for finalizing the data collection tool
References
• Indian Council of Medical Research – National Institute of Epidemiology. Basic Course
in Biomedical Research Course Material. Chennai: ICMR-NIE,
https://nptel.ac.in/courses/127/106/127106134/
• Mehta, T. Designing data collection tools. Basic Course in Biomedical Research
Handbook. 1st edition 2021. Pg.248 – 267
• Tenny S, Brannan JM, Brannan GD. Qualitative Study. [Updated 2022 Sep 18]. In:
StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-.Available
from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470395/
QUESTIONS
• What is data and data collection ?
• What are the main components ?
• Difference between qualitative vs quantitative data?
• What points are tested during pilot testing ?
THANK YOU

More Related Content

PPTX
Developing Research Proposal Systematic Review
PPTX
meaurement scale,data collection and questioner design.pptx
PPT
Evaluation of Medical literature
PPT
An introduction to conducting a systematic literature review for social scien...
PPTX
Research design andmethods
PDF
Clinical research.pdf
PPT
L2 Research process and types of research.ppt
PPTX
Case study pu
Developing Research Proposal Systematic Review
meaurement scale,data collection and questioner design.pptx
Evaluation of Medical literature
An introduction to conducting a systematic literature review for social scien...
Research design andmethods
Clinical research.pdf
L2 Research process and types of research.ppt
Case study pu

Similar to Designing data collection tools by dr Karan (20)

PPTX
Systematic review and meta analysis.pptx
PPTX
Research protocol writting
PPTX
Data collection
PPTX
Research Tool and Data Collection Methods
PDF
Unit 1 Introduction to Research (3 hrs) May 27 2023.pdf
PPTX
Critical appraisal of a research writing
PPTX
Data Collection Methods for research or thesis
PPTX
RESEARCH METHODLOGY final 28-2-16.pptx
PPTX
methods in social science and data sources..pptx
PPTX
Lecture 1 Introduction to Nx Research (1)(1).pptx
PPTX
Data collection
PPTX
Presentation how to write a research protocol
PPTX
6C Lloyd et al. A database of patient experience, questions, concerns and pre...
PPTX
Scientific Research
PPTX
Methods of data collection primary.pptx
PPTX
Evidence based orthodontics parag
PPT
Lecture 1-Introduction to Research Methods.ppt
PPTX
Top Articles in Medical Education 2016
PPTX
Designing data collection tools.pptx
PPTX
Research methodology PPT for Medical Laboratory Sciences x
Systematic review and meta analysis.pptx
Research protocol writting
Data collection
Research Tool and Data Collection Methods
Unit 1 Introduction to Research (3 hrs) May 27 2023.pdf
Critical appraisal of a research writing
Data Collection Methods for research or thesis
RESEARCH METHODLOGY final 28-2-16.pptx
methods in social science and data sources..pptx
Lecture 1 Introduction to Nx Research (1)(1).pptx
Data collection
Presentation how to write a research protocol
6C Lloyd et al. A database of patient experience, questions, concerns and pre...
Scientific Research
Methods of data collection primary.pptx
Evidence based orthodontics parag
Lecture 1-Introduction to Research Methods.ppt
Top Articles in Medical Education 2016
Designing data collection tools.pptx
Research methodology PPT for Medical Laboratory Sciences x
Ad

Recently uploaded (20)

PDF
OSCE SERIES ( Questions & Answers ) - Set 3.pdf
PPTX
Acute Coronary Syndrome for Cardiology Conference
PPT
Rheumatology Member of Royal College of Physicians.ppt
PDF
OSCE SERIES ( Questions & Answers ) - Set 5.pdf
PDF
Lecture 8- Cornea and Sclera .pdf 5tg year
PPTX
Hearthhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
PPTX
Electrolyte Disturbance in Paediatric - Nitthi.pptx
PPT
neurology Member of Royal College of Physicians (MRCP).ppt
PDF
OSCE SERIES - Set 7 ( Questions & Answers ).pdf
PDF
Comparison of Swim-Up and Microfluidic Sperm Sorting.pdf
PPTX
Approach to chest pain, SOB, palpitation and prolonged fever
PPTX
NRP and care of Newborn.pptx- APPT presentation about neonatal resuscitation ...
PPTX
thio and propofol mechanism and uses.pptx
PPTX
preoerative assessment in anesthesia and critical care medicine
PPTX
NUCLEAR-MEDICINE-Copy.pptxbabaabahahahaahha
PPTX
Introduction to Medical Microbiology for 400L Medical Students
PPT
nephrology MRCP - Member of Royal College of Physicians ppt
PPTX
IMAGING EQUIPMENiiiiìiiiiiTpptxeiuueueur
PPT
Infections Member of Royal College of Physicians.ppt
PPTX
Reading between the Rings: Imaging in Brain Infections
OSCE SERIES ( Questions & Answers ) - Set 3.pdf
Acute Coronary Syndrome for Cardiology Conference
Rheumatology Member of Royal College of Physicians.ppt
OSCE SERIES ( Questions & Answers ) - Set 5.pdf
Lecture 8- Cornea and Sclera .pdf 5tg year
Hearthhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhhh
Electrolyte Disturbance in Paediatric - Nitthi.pptx
neurology Member of Royal College of Physicians (MRCP).ppt
OSCE SERIES - Set 7 ( Questions & Answers ).pdf
Comparison of Swim-Up and Microfluidic Sperm Sorting.pdf
Approach to chest pain, SOB, palpitation and prolonged fever
NRP and care of Newborn.pptx- APPT presentation about neonatal resuscitation ...
thio and propofol mechanism and uses.pptx
preoerative assessment in anesthesia and critical care medicine
NUCLEAR-MEDICINE-Copy.pptxbabaabahahahaahha
Introduction to Medical Microbiology for 400L Medical Students
nephrology MRCP - Member of Royal College of Physicians ppt
IMAGING EQUIPMENiiiiìiiiiiTpptxeiuueueur
Infections Member of Royal College of Physicians.ppt
Reading between the Rings: Imaging in Brain Infections
Ad

Designing data collection tools by dr Karan

  • 1. Designing data collection tools Presenter : Dr. Karan Suneja (JR2) Moderator: Dr. Shoebul Haque (SR) Peer support : Dr C. Vignesh (JR2) Department of Pharmacology and Therapeutics King George’s Medical University Lucknow, U.P., India E-mail: drkarankgmu@gmail.com
  • 2. Contents • Introduction • Types of data collection tools • Key elements • Components • Summary • References
  • 3. Specific learning objectives By the end of this teaching learning session audience will be able to : • Define data and its collection • Enumerate different tools for collection • Enumerate components and testing methods • Describe WHO data collection tools
  • 4. Introduction • Data word derived from ‘datum’ • Observable and measurable facts that provide information about the phenomenon under study • Data collection : process by which the researcher collect the information needed to answer the research problems
  • 6. Qualitative data • Non-numerical and usually ordinal or nominal in nature • Aims to address the ‘how’ and ‘why’ of study • Includes focus groups discussions and in-depth interviews https://images.app.goo.gl/THhBBArbrMnnK2F58
  • 7. Quantitative data • Numerical in nature and can be mathematically computed • Divided into discrete and continuous • Aims to address ‘how much, how often’ of the study https://images.app.goo.gl/THhBBArbrMnnK2F58
  • 8. Example of qualitative vs quantitative data Data unit Numeric variable Quantitative data A person How many children do you have? 2 children How much do you earn? Rs.60,000 per month How many hours do you work? 40 hours per week Data unit Categorical variable Qualitative data A person In which country you were born? India What is your occupation? Teacher Do you work full- time or part- time? Full-time
  • 9. Primary Data • Data collected for the first time • Collected directly from target population • Example: market research and student thesis https://images.app.goo.gl/uAHEDjQxmh7hVWdAA
  • 10. Secondary Data • Data collected through primary sources • Easier to collect • Eg: review articles, newsletters, WHO reports https://images.app.goo.gl/uAHEDjQxmh7hVWdAA
  • 11. Primary data Secondary data Real time data Past data Always specific to the researcher needs Not specific Expensive Low cost Excellent data quality Data quality not up to the mark More time consuming Less time consuming Capable of solving a specific problem Less capable Advantages and disadvantages
  • 12. Data collection tools • Instruments or aids used for the purpose of collecting and recording the data • Depends on the type of research method • Examples : Types of method Tools for data collection Questioning 1.Questionnaire 2. Visual analogue scale
  • 13. Different tools for collection of data 1. Abstraction form : Review of records • Personal records • Clinical records • Surveillance records • Registers Patient’s diary in a clinical trial, where they note their symptoms and medicine intake Electronic health records of patient Government reports on dengue cases in different regions A cancer registry storing patient details, treatments, and survival rates (NCRP)
  • 14. De Angelis G, Cimon K, Sinclair A, et al. Monitoring for Atrial Fibrillation in Discharged Stroke and Transient Ischemic Attack Patients: A Clinical and Cost-Effectiveness Analysis and Review of Patient Preferences [Internet]. Ottawa (ON): Canadian Agency for Drugs and Technologies in Health; 2016 Mar. (CADTH Optimal Use Report, No. 5.2b.) Appendix 4, Data Abstraction Form — Clinical Review.Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK362764/
  • 15. 2. Structured observation guide • Used in documenting certain process and in depth interviews • Checklist required such as texts and figures Example: observation of healthcare centre for TB services TB screening Lab tests Anti-Tb treatment Awareness
  • 16. Questionnaire • Interview - administered • Computer assisted • Self-administered https://images.app.goo.gl/wwvRz4CcPNdRnNJb6
  • 17. Information collected with data collection tools
  • 18. Key elements of data collection tools Clarity of data obtained Comphrensiveness of responses in terms of categories Constraints in responses of what information could get collected Context of questions Utility of the instructions Order of questions
  • 19. Components of data collection tools 1.Introduction Presentation Objectives Informed consent Concluding statements 2.Identifiers Actual Coded 3.Instructions General Skip patterns
  • 20. 4.Body of the instrument (questions) Open item open question open answer open question closed answer Closed item dichotomous multiple option single answer multiple answers quantitative answer Semi open items
  • 21. 1. An investigator wanted to study the clinical profile of patients presented with foreign body in nose, attended in the emergency department in the last 2 years in a hospital. Which of the following is the most suitable way to collect data? Ans : Review of records 2. The options are not provided in which type of questions? Ans: Open ended 3. In which type of questions other answers can be added? Ans: Semi-open questions 4. Creation of continuous variables as responses is allowed in ? Ans: Closed question Questions
  • 22. • Write short and precise questions • Use simple words of every day language • Avoid negatives and double negatives • Ask only one question at the time • Specificity • Use of neutral tone to avoid influence Formulating the questions Eg : What is the effect of regular physiotherapy on pain relief in patients with chronic sciatica? Avoids unnecessary words while maintaining clarity Common terms like "regular physiotherapy" and "pain relief" instead of complex No confusing phrases like "Does lack of physiotherapy increase pain?" Focuses only on the effect of physiotherapy on pain, not other factors Clearly defines the population (patients with chronic sciatica), intervention (regular physiotherapy), and outcome (pain relief) without bias.
  • 23. Sorting the order of questions • From simple to complicated • General to specific • Casual to intimate • Group together questions on same topic • Chronological order • Identification questions at the beginning or end • Simplifying complex questions Eg: Patient Experience with Chronic Sciatica Management Do you currently take any medications for pain relief? How effective do you find your current pain management regimen in controlling your sciatica symptoms? How long have you experienced sciatica symptoms? What treatments have you tried for sciatica? What is your average pain level on a scale of 1 to 10? What strategies do you use to manage your pain? Have you missed work due to sciatica pain? How does sciatica pain affect your personal relationships or emotional well-being? When did you first notice your sciatica symptoms ? How have your symptoms changed over time? Original: How would you evaluate the effectiveness of various therapeutic interventions on your quality of life and pain management, considering both pharmacological and non-pharmacological approaches? Simplified: How do different treatments (like medications or physical therapy) affect your pain and daily life? What is your age? What is your gender?
  • 24. Laying out the data collection tool • Created after sorting the order of questions • Influences responses of participants • Splitting of sections • Whole page question • Spacing between questions
  • 25. • Usage of large fonts • Alignment and numbering • Standardize coding of response • Auto- coding Example :
  • 26. Finalizing the data collection tool • Checking the instrument against the objectives/analysis plan • Reviewing of the data collection tool • Language of the instrument
  • 27. Pilot testing • Check whether instrument is clear, understandable and acceptable • Check flow and skip pattern • Check pertinence of coding • Estimate time needed • Pilot test with a few volunteers
  • 28. Designing of health research tool Decide how to measure the concepts Relate concepts to study design and objectives Match the scale for measures chosen to analysis plan Ensure reliability and validity of measures Choose most appropriate method of data collection Tailor the measures to the study participants Decide how best to ask the actual questions
  • 29. SCORE (survey, count, optimize, review, enable) RHIS (Routine health information system) STEPS WHO survey plus WHO data collection tools
  • 30. Summary • Most commonly 4 types of data i.e. primary, secondary, qualitative and quantitative • Data collection tools are important for efficient management of data • Main tools are abstract forms, structured observation and questionnaire • Information obtained on basis of facts, knowledge and judgements • Components are introduction, identifiers, instructions and body of instrument • Pilot testing is critical for finalizing the data collection tool
  • 31. References • Indian Council of Medical Research – National Institute of Epidemiology. Basic Course in Biomedical Research Course Material. Chennai: ICMR-NIE, https://nptel.ac.in/courses/127/106/127106134/ • Mehta, T. Designing data collection tools. Basic Course in Biomedical Research Handbook. 1st edition 2021. Pg.248 – 267 • Tenny S, Brannan JM, Brannan GD. Qualitative Study. [Updated 2022 Sep 18]. In: StatPearls [Internet]. Treasure Island (FL): StatPearls Publishing; 2025 Jan-.Available from: https://www.ncbi.nlm.nih.gov/books/NBK470395/
  • 32. QUESTIONS • What is data and data collection ? • What are the main components ? • Difference between qualitative vs quantitative data? • What points are tested during pilot testing ?