4 Tools and Technology
Learning Outcomes
By the end of the chapter, learners will:
- Understand the multiple factors that influence how data is collected and effectively analyzed
- Evaluate a variety of data collection and analysis software considering multiple project based factors
- Develop a general knowledge of widely available data collection and analysis software applications and their features
Introduction
This chapter provides an overview of some of the different softwares and technologies available and commonly used for data collection, analysis, and sharing. It is intended to provide guidance in software selection rather than in-depth support in using a specific software. Once you’ve decided on one or more applications to use for your data collection project, we recommend seeking out more in-depth tutorial resources.
Factors for Consideration
There are several options to consider that will influence how you collect your data and what tools you use to do so. Here are some key factors you should consider:
- What platforms are already in use at your institution? A platform that is already familiar reduces the training burden and improves the likelihood that it is integrated into existing institutional systems.
- What is the skill level of the individuals collecting and analyzing the data? Some tools have a steep learning curve and many statistical analysis tools require coding experience.
- Is there funding available for software subscriptions or training?
- What functionality is essential for collecting the type of data you consider most necessary?
- Who needs to be able to enter and access data?
- Where is the data stored? How is user privacy protected?
- How easily can the proposed platform export data for reporting?
Types of Data Software
For Data Collection
Surveys are consistently the most popular method of data in the Open Education community. Below are some various forms survey collection software.
Google Forms
- A user-friendly tool that is easy for beginners
- Comes free with Google suite account
- Built-in visual analytics
- Easy export to tools like Excel and Google Sheets
- Ease of use means not a lot of templates and question types
- Free account means there is little to no user support
Skill level: Beginner
Price: Free with personal plan; Monthly rate per user with Business Plan
Data storage: Cloud; U.S. servers
Microsoft Forms
- Another user-friendly software
- Comes free with a Microsoft Suite account but cannot be purchased individually
- Built-in visual analytics
- Does not have conditional logic
Skill level: Beginner
Price: Free with Microsoft account
Data Storage: Cloud; U.S. servers
Jotform
- Thousands of templates to build from
- Many widget integrations such as PDF embedder, Adobe Sign, QR Codes
- Utilizes Google Analytics and has a visual report builder and easy data download (CSV, Excel, and PDF)
- Less functionality with free plan and advanced features can be complicated for beginners
Skill level: Beginner/Interm