 Data
Collection
5.4 Provide adequate time and
resources
Programs need to build in time for record-keeping
before or after each activity session or have enough
volunteers to allow records to be maintained in real-time
instead of recalled after the fact. Naturally, records
and observations are likely to be more complete if
they are not rushed.
Staff and resources for evaluation are often limited,
especially in community programs. Some programs budget
5-10% of funds for evaluation, which allows additional
staff to be hired or contracted to help with data collection
tools, data collection, analysis and report preparation The amount of time necessary for
data collection depends on:
- the collection method (review of existing written
sources, observations, focus groups,
personal interviews or questionnaires)
- whether it is conducted in person, self-completed
(completed by the respondent), completed
on-site or off-site, online, by telephone or by mail
- time can range from at best a few hours to many
hours over a period of weeks for each
round of data collection.
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