Hi,
In using the tablets, if we follow certain checklists and protocols, it can be a more reliable and accurate means of data collection.
We had our enumerators first train on paper, since they were not familiar with data collection on tablets. On paper, they learnt about IDELA. They learnt to administer IDELA on paper, and kept a copy with them just in case.
We then carved out about 2 days in the 5 day training for them the learn about tablets (switching them on/off, opening the app, using it online/offline, uploading, trouble shooting, batter conversation, not using the tablet for purposes other than data collection). We did a ton of field practice using the tablets.
The other thing we did was code only the question and response texts on the tablets. We kept all the visual items in a large kit – which each enumerator had to place in order before beginning any assessment. We also gave everyone a flip book which had only one question+image per sheet. All of this was to ease their use of materials and tablets together, which can otherwise be a source of confusion.
We also disallowed the skipping of items in the tablets. This immensely reduced the possibility of returning to questions or skipping them by mistake.
We also did daily checks – data had to be uploaded daily and we would check each evening if everyone’s data was in, and if they were missing data by any chance.
And of course, intense monitoring in the field. If we felt someone was not coping with the administration, they were immediately pulled out and trained some more.
After a couple of weeks, it becomes natural to use the tablets and in my personal opinion, it does not adversely affect the data collection at all.