Methodology

7^th Jun 2010 @ 5pm NYP library discussion room

Measurement tools

 

In order to prepare for data collection, two separate forms are designed as a measurement tool. 

One for taking the measurement of forearms and another for taking the measurement of the feet.

The average of 3 measurements for each forearm and feet (i.e. Right forearm three times, Left forearm three times, Right foot three times and Left foot three times) will be used for data analysis.

Calibration of equipment

In order to ensure all instruments are comparable, the foot chart was printed according to alignment and validated against a ruler. The ruler was measured against the measuring tape to ensure consistency in measuring equipment

 

All our measuring instruments are also verified with each other. (i.e. the measuring tape for the forearm and the ruler used for measuring the feet are equal)

Logistics needed such as tables, chairs, manpower, classroom availability and layout were also discussed.  Following is the final layout we had decided

The people in red represent our participants and the people in blue are the manpower required.  Participants will submit their consent forms at the reception before proceeding to the forearm station.  Two members of our team will be assisting to take their forearm measurement while participants remain sitted.  Data will then be recorded into the forearm data form.  Once the measurements were complete, participants will move to the feet station.  Three members of our team will be assisting to take their feet measurements with one of them coordinating the flow of participants from the forearm station and  assisting in the recording of data in the feet station.

Pilot testing

Pilot testing was done within our team members to ensure that there is a smooth flow to the data collection process as discussed and planned.  Some fine tuning were done to the coordination of flow from the forearm station to the feet station as there may be participants who bypassed our reception or forearm station and went straight to the feet station first.  Thus, the coordination would need to ensure the participant arriving at the feet station had already done his / her measurements at the forearm station before measurements are taken.