Introduction to Data Collection in Research Studies
Date:
25/06/2026
Organised by:
University of Bristol Medical School Online Short Course Programme
Presenter:
This course will be led by Dr Lucy Culliford and Dr Sarah Baos from the Bristol Trials Centre.
Level:
Entry (no or almost no prior knowledge)
Contact:
Bristol Medical School Short Course Programme Team
short-course@bristol.ac.uk
+ 44 117 455 5987
Venue: Online
Collection of data is an essential aspect of most projects in many areas of health research, observational studies, qualitative work, and Randomised Controlled Trials. Many staff are tasked with deciding what, when and how data should be collected for their study. Collecting the right data is essential to answer the research question. This course will cover the basics of data collection in research studies, why it is important and tips on how to ensure data integrity.
Aim:
This course aims to explain the basics of data collection in research studies, why it is important and tips on how to ensure data integrity.
Structure:
This online course will be taught over 1 full day. There will be a mix of lectures followed by interactive practical sessions based on real life examples and challenges.
Intended Learning Objectives:
By the end of the course participants should know:
1. how to use research protocols to decide which data items should be collected;
2. tips on how to collect different types of data;
3. ways to clean and improve the data quality prior to analysis;
4. who should be involved, and when to involve the required stakeholders;
5. expectations of external stakeholders (regulators, Sponsors and end users); and
6. striking the balance between collecting enough data to answer the study question whilst not overburdening data collection teams and ensuring collection of permissible data.
Target audience:
This course is intended for any staff who have to collect data for research projects. Collection of data is an essential aspect of most projects in many areas of health research, observational studies, qualitative work, and Randomised Controlled Trials.
Please note that this course focuses on data collection and does not cover Research Governance (including approvals such as Research Ethics Committee approval) or protocol writing. This is covered in other short courses that you may like to attend first if needed.
Outline:
The course will cover:
- how to use research protocols to decide which data items should be collected;
- tips on how to collect different types of data;
- ways to clean and improve the data quality prior to analysis;
- who should be involved, and when to involve the required stakeholders;
- expectations of external stakeholders (regulators, Sponsors and end users); and
- striking the balance between collecting enough data to answer the study question whilst not overburdening data collection teams and ensuring collection of permissible data.
Cost:
£250
Website and registration:
Region:
South West
Keywords:
Data Collection, Data Collection (other)
Related publications and presentations from our eprints archive:
Data Collection
Data Collection (other)
