Neftaly Template DCA01 – Data Collection and Analysis
Purpose
The DCA01 template ensures clarity and consistency in the data handling process—from collection methods to analysis techniques. It supports:
- Planning of appropriate data collection tools and methods
- Ensuring data integrity and ethical compliance
- Systematic and transparent analysis of findings
Neftaly Template Structure and How to Fill It
Section 1: Project Overview
- Project Title: Clearly state the research or project title.
- Researcher/Team Name(s): List the main individuals involved in data management.
- Date: Record when the form was completed or last updated.
Section 2: Data Collection Plan
| Data Type | Data Source | Collection Method | Instruments/Tools | Responsible Person | Timeline |
|---|
Description:
- Data Type: What kind of data? (e.g., qualitative, quantitative, both)
- Data Source: Who or what will provide the data? (e.g., interviews, surveys, documents)
- Collection Method: How will you gather it? (e.g., online survey, face-to-face interview, focus group)
- Instruments/Tools: What tools will you use? (e.g., questionnaire, audio recorder, spreadsheet)
- Responsible Person: Who is in charge of each method?
- Timeline: When will each collection activity occur?
Section 3: Data Management
- Data Storage Plan:
Explain where and how the data will be stored securely (e.g., encrypted drives, cloud storage, paper files in locked cabinets). - Data Privacy & Confidentiality:
Describe how you will protect sensitive information (e.g., de-identification, password protection, limited access). - Data Backup Procedures:
Indicate how often and where data backups will be performed. - Compliance:
Note any relevant ethical approvals or data protection regulations (e.g., POPIA, GDPR).
Section 4: Data Analysis Plan
| Data Type | Analysis Method | Software/Tools | Responsible Person | Expected Output |
|---|
Description:
- Data Type: Specify the kind of data being analyzed.
- Analysis Method: Outline how the data will be analyzed (e.g., thematic analysis, regression analysis, coding, cross-tabulation).
- Software/Tools: List any tools used for analysis (e.g., SPSS, NVivo, Excel, R).
- Responsible Person: Who will conduct the analysis?
- Expected Output: State the result or format of analysis (e.g., charts, tables, themes, insights).
Section 5: Data Quality and Validation
- Validation Techniques:
Describe how you will ensure data accuracy and consistency (e.g., triangulation, double entry, peer checking). - Limitations or Challenges:
List potential issues that may affect data collection or analysis and how they’ll be addressed.
Section 6: Ethical Considerations
- Consent Process:
How will informed consent be obtained from participants? - Anonymity Measures:
How will identities be protected in the data and reporting? - Data Sharing and Retention:
Indicate if the data will be shared, and how long it will be retained post-project.
Section 7: Summary and Sign-Off
- Summary of Key Actions:
Recap major steps or decisions in the data handling process. - Signatures:
Space for sign-off from the researcher(s), supervisor(s), or ethics officer.
Neftaly Optional Attachments
- Sample questionnaires or data collection tools
- Data coding framework or rubric
- Charts or mock-ups of expected data displays
Neftaly Example (Abbreviated Table)
Data Collection Table
| Data Type | Data Source | Method | Tool | Person | Timeline |
|---|---|---|---|---|---|
| Quantitative | 100 youth (ages 16–25) | Online survey | Google Forms | J. Mokoena | June 1–15, 2025 |
| Qualitative | 10 teachers | Interviews | Audio + guide | R. Dlamini | June 5–10, 2025 |
Data Analysis Table
| Data Type | Method | Software | Responsible | Output |
|---|---|---|---|---|
| Survey | Descriptive stats | Excel | J. Mokoena | Charts, summary table |
| Interviews | Thematic analysis | NVivo | R. Dlamini | Coded themes, quotes |

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