A computer-assisted data collection system for use in a multicenter study of American Indians and Alaska Natives: SCAPES

摘要

We describe a computer-assisted data collection system developed for a multicenter cohort study of American Indian and Alaska Natives. The Study Computer-Assisted Participant Evaluation System or SCAPES is built around a central database server that controls a small private network with touch screen workstations. SCAPES encompasses the self-administered questionnaires, the keyboard-based stations for interviewer-administered questionnaires, a system for inputting medical measurements, and administrative tasks such as data exporting, backup and management. Elements of SCAPES hardwareetwork design, data storage, programming language, software choices, questionnaire programming including the programming of questionnaires administered using audio computer-assisted self interviewing (ACASI), and participant identification/data security system are presented. Unique features of SCAPES are that data are promptly made available to participants in the form of health feedback; data can be quickly summarized for tribes for health monitoring and planning at the community level; and data are available to study investigators for analyses and scientific evaluation.