3.2 Data and Information

Overview Understand the difference between information and data. Discuss features important in form design such as: use of tick boxes, colour, font, position, instructions. Identify advantages, disadvantages and applications for OMR and OCR.

Data Data is raw facts and figures. Data does not have meaning. Examples: 5 John A

Information Information is processed data that gives it meaning. Examples: There are 5 cows in the field. My brother’s name is John.

Gathering information Method Questionnaire Observation Reading documentation Interview

Gathering information Source Paper based Computer based Automated data capture

Sources compared Paper basedComputer basedAutomated data capture Humans enter the dataDirect data capture method Collected data is keyed into a computer Data typed in directly onto an on-line form Two methods available OCR and OMR Prone to human errorLess human errorNo processing errors Instructions need to be clear Marks need to be entered carefully Time consuming if large volumes of data Can cope with large volumes of data

FontInstructionsColourImagesPositioningMethod of answering SizeTitleSuitability Does not obscure Space required Intended audience PromptspurposeClarityLogical orderUse of tick boxes ClarityPurpose Help For each of the following features state the importance of considering them in form design.

Samples of forms

OMR Advantages Direct data capture method High speed reading of large volumes of data Accurate: No processing errors Results can be processed quickly Very little staff training required Disadvantages Forms require pre-printed boxes Forms need to be carefully filled in Requires specialised machinery to read the forms A paper based system so forms need to be carefully handled

Sample OMR form

OCR Advantages Large quantities of text can be input quickly A paper based form can be turned into an electronic one It can read handwriting Disadvantages Handwriting needs to be learnt by the computer Systems are expensive

Applications OMR National lottery School attendance mark sheets OCR Letter sorting Digitising old books

Acronyms OCROptical Character Recognition OMROptical Mark Recognition