Strengthening Social Impact through Collaborative Research: A Hybrid Approach to Data Collection in Low-Resource Settings - Lessons from a School-Based Study in the Greater Accra Region of Ghana

Background and Purpose: The theme of strengthening social impact through collaborative research is particularly relevant in low-resource settings, where data collection faces unique challenges. Researchers must navigate logistical hurdles, limited resources, and cultural considerations while aiming for high-quality data capture. This paper presents a hybrid approach to data collection in a multi-site population-based survey conducted in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. The study's purpose was to address the challenges of data collection in a low-resource setting by leveraging stakeholder collaboration in schools, implementing a hybrid data collection method, and overcoming logistic hurdles to ensure data quality.

Methods: The research project utilized a team of six members for data collection in the Greater Accra region of Ghana. Preparations included questionnaire and consent form preparation, with forms sent to schools in advance for parental signatures. On the data collection day, signed consent forms were collected from students, surveys were administered, and unique identification numbers were assigned for traceability. Data encoding into a digital format was done using electronic tablets with REDCap software. The workflow emphasized efficiency, stakeholder collaboration, and technology utilization, contributing to successful data collection.

Results: The project effectively gathered survey responses from approximately 800 students across six different schools within a remarkably short period of four days. The success of the data collection endeavor can be attributed to several key factors. Firstly, meticulous planning and thorough preparations, including the pre-visit arrangements and preparation of questionnaires and consent forms, laid a solid foundation for the efficient execution of data collection activities. Clear communication channels established with school stakeholders ensured smooth coordination and contributed significantly to the project's success.
Stakeholder collaboration emerged as a crucial element in facilitating access to students, securing consent, and garnering support for the research project. Collaborative partnerships with teachers, school administrators, and local education authorities played a pivotal role in overcoming logistical hurdles and ensuring a conducive environment for data collection.
Efforts to engage participants were also instrumental in the project's success. Various strategies were employed to create a welcoming and non-intimidating atmosphere for students, encouraging their active participation in the surveys. Effective communication of the study's purpose and benefits further enhanced participant engagement.
Resource optimization through the use of electronic devices for data capture streamlined the data collection process, optimizing efficiency and contributing to the timely completion of data collection activities. Despite facing challenges inherent in low-resource settings, such as time constraints and logistical complexities, the project demonstrated adaptability and effective problem-solving strategies, ultimately leading to its successful completion.

Conclusions and Implications: The successful outcomes highlight the effectiveness of collaborative planning, stakeholder engagement, and participant involvement strategies in overcoming challenges and ensuring data quality. These implications underscore the importance of methodological robustness and the need for tailored approaches to address specific contextual factors in research conducted in resource-constrained environments. Additionally, the findings emphasize the potential for innovative data collection methods, such as hybrid approaches combining traditional and electronic methods, to optimize resources and expedite data collection processes in such settings.