Mobile Data Collection for GIS Experts Course

Field data collection usually involves much paper work. 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, skip logics).

Data is gathered in situ with the data records stored on the device. Once the enumerator is within range of a Local Area Connection, Wi-Fi or mobile phone data connection, he/she can send the data to a central server.

 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. Linking data to spatial location aims at improving decision making.

The course covers the steps to develop applications and its delivery is through slides, hands-on computer exercises, demos, hands-on tablet/phone exercises and use of other PC applications

Who Should Attend?
The course is designed for representatives from government, project teams, NGOs, multi and bilateral development organizations, consultancies, etc., that are typically employed as project managers and directors, GIS experts,M&E specialists, technical specialists, and researchers.

Duration
5 Days

Course Outcomes

Upon course completion, the participant should be able to:

• Explain the purpose of ODK and KoBoToolbox.
• Utilize each of the tools of ODK and KoBoToolbox set of applications.
• Digitize a questionnaire form using 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 modify the parameters of ODK collect and Kobo 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 for visualizing them over desktop and online maps.

Course Outline

 1: Introduction to mobile phone data collection and Spreadsheets Refresher.

 2: Setting up aggregate server with Google App Engine.

 3: Designing & building an XForms.

 4: Uploading the form to aggregate & downloading to Android phone for data collection.

 5: Setting server preference on android phone.

 6: Data collection: Capture field data, Capture GPS coordinates, capture photos, record audio sounds and videos.

 7: Submitting completed data to aggregate server

 8: Exporting data from ODK aggregate as CSV,kml &JSON

 9: Importing CSV file into statistical applications

 10: Exporting GPS data for Mapping/Visualizing (google fusion tables, Google maps and QGIS)

Methodology

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.

Accreditation

Upon successful completion of this training, participants will be issued with an Indepth Research Institute (IRES) certificate certified by the National Industrial Training Authority (NITA).

Training Venue

The training will be held at IRES Training Centre. The course fee covers the course tuition, training materials, two break refreshments and lunch.

All participants will additionally cater for their, travel expenses, visa application, insurance, and other personal expenses.

Accomodation and Airport Pickup

Accommodation and airport pickup are arranged upon request. For reservations contact the Training Officer.