I run a non-profit in Nepal that provides educational and social services to orphans in Nepal through an after-school program. In addition to academic support, we do health checkups and nutrition, mental health therapy, etc. I’m currently searching for a database that we can track our program and evaluation outcomes. Something that would help me see their grades, health records, behavioral evaluations over time, etc. I’m having a hard time finding something that would cover all the bases, so I can see a snapshot of each child but also how our program is doing over time (e.g. an entire class’ grades over the year, behavioral changes over time, etc.). Do any of you know of any kind of software that might work for this? Right now I’ve got everything in spreadsheets and I’m realizing quickly, that it’s not a good long-term solution.
Thank you so much for your help,
Jehan
Hi Jehan and thanks for asking.
Unfortunately, I can't be of much direct help, since I believe you may be searching for a relatively sophisticated relational database, and I am not very familiar with those. I do, however, have a couple of suggestions:
First, I suggest that you do a web search for "list of relational databases." That will generate several lists of commercial databases and basic information about each. It may help you narrow your search.
Second, I strongly suggest that you find and consult with a database programmer in your area who is skilled in building and and use of relational databases. That person can help you in at least two ways. First, to identify the questions you really want to answer from your data. Second, to map out how the database modules will need to be structured and linked for most clarity and efficiency.
It may be possible to transfer your current data from your spreadsheets to the database you choose to use. If, for instance, you are already using a Microsoft Excel spreadsheet, it is possible to link those data into a Microsoft Access database without a huge amount of complex programming. Some programming will be necessary, whatever database you choose; and you should get skilled help with that.
I regret that I can't be of more assistance, but do identify local resources who can work directly with you to develop what you need. I am very much impressed by your description of how you want to make use of your data, and I believe your efforst can be of benefit to the field.
PS: A colleague has just reminded me that CTB offers one possibility that I had forgotten:
"On the substance of the question, it seems like what the Tool Box itself offers could be a good bet. This is the (recently-renamed) Community Check Box, some details of which are found at http://ctb.ku.edu/en/community-check-box-evaluation-system.
At very first blush, this might provide what the questioner is looking for. He might be encouraged to check out the link. A caveat is that this is a cost item, and I'm not sure what if anything this user in Nepal might be able to pay, and even if so how payment details would work across borders. But if the questioner is interested, he might contact toolbox@ku.edu (this generally goes to Christina) to see what might be worked out.