Research tools in biostatistics is an impressive program that I have enjoyed a lot and never regretted having applied. As a researcher and social scientist it has improved my understanding of several research tools available to use in any research work.

Despite having prior knowledge on statistics the programme has reviewed some of the research tools I didn’t know about such as survemonkey, Enkoto, KoboCollect tool box, power BI and Tableau.

This shows that as a researcher we have a lot of tools at disposal to improve our data collection and analysis. For instance, KoboCollect is an offline data collection tool that can be used to gather data in a place where network service is poor and there is no electricity such as in rural setups as the case in most African countries.

Apart from that the integration of Artificial intelligence to SPSS shows that some tools can not replaced but incorporated and improved to make them more effective, powerful, efficient and accurate.

Hypothesis testing and making inference in based on statistics helped me to understand the importance of making data-driven decisions in credible research study.

I have also learnt how prepare and analyse data, create interactive visualizations using charts, dashboards and stories for clarity and publish reports. However, there is a lot that I have learnt and ready to use them in all my future research. Thank you.

The research tools eachings have been exceptional as well as mentors who are approachable and always available

The program involved two models of learning which was really beneficial to me as I was able to read on my own as well as learn from our experienced mentors and colleagues.

I am happy because there is high level of transparency, accountability and commitment on the part of the organizing team. Last but not the list I would like to thank you for the privilege provided.

The program was very good, the courses taught aligned and they were so practical. I was able to learn alot like non - scientific articles writing, project design, mixed research, qualitative and quantitative research.

The program delivery using the audio visual means was inclusive and easy to understand. The facilitators where also very collaborative and encouraged participation during lectures.

The one Challenge i faced was with the grant writing group. We were unable to do any work.

I enjoyed how the program strengthened my ability to think critically and approach problems with a structured mindset.

I learnt to break down challenges, analyze evidence, and make decisions based on data rather than assumptions.
I felt my analytical skills grew during the course

I liked the hands-on approach used throughout the training.
The program helped me understand how to design and run projects from start to finish.
planning activities, manage resources, and track progress using simple but effective tools.

I appreciated the focus on research because it sharpened my ability to collect, interpret, and use evidence.
I learnt ethical data practices, proper documentation, and how to turn findings into practical recommendations.

Research methodology both qualitative and Quantitive research
In this learning method I have enjoyed example through quiz and response through mentor
Other important is how we create Google and usage of different data collection tools like kobo and other i really appreciate appreciate your input in my journey

Firstly, I want to thank the almighty God for giving me the strength to complete the entire program and I also want to thank the Administration of FISORI for their timely communication and constant reminder for every session. This is a well organized institution that truly cares about it students.

However, I found this program "Research Tools & Software in Biostatistics" highly engaging. Our lecturers abilities to move seamlessly from foundational concepts to practical application, such as utilizing the extensive package ecosystem in all software that were used was enjoyable.

Lastly, the most satisfying aspect was the program's structured approach to complex topics. Thank you, FISORI. I look forward to more of these in the nearest future.

The mentorship program and the dynamism of the course

I enjoyed the sacrifice and commitment of the various Lecturers in delivering lectures and the availability of video class records over the LMS platform for recap. I also enjoyed the consistency with information reminder through whatsapp and email.

The “Research Tools and Software in Biostatistics” course by AYPAD has been a deeply enriching learning experience. It turned subjects that often feel complex and overwhelming into something understandable and practical.

Topics like statistical analysis, research design, and data interpretation were presented in a way that felt accessible and relevant. As the course progressed, I felt my confidence steadily grow.

The facilitators explained each concept with clarity and used real-life examples that connected directly to the realities of public health and development work. Their teaching style kept the sessions engaging and made learning genuinely enjoyable.

What I appreciated most was how the course emphasized the importance of research in guiding evidence-based decisions. Understanding biostatistics and research tools now feels essential, not optional, especially for those working in programme planning, monitoring, and evaluation.

This perspective widened my understanding of how meaningful and impactful good research can be.
Overall, the course strengthened my technical skills and sparked a deeper interest in research.

I am sincerely grateful to AYPAD for designing such a thoughtful, inspiring, and empowering training experience. It has left me more motivated and better equipped to apply research principles in my professional journey.

The teaching of some of the facilitators
The timing

During the Research Tools & Software in Biostatistics program, I gained extensive knowledge of modern research tools, statistical methods, and data-driven decision-making techniques.

I learned how statistical symbols, descriptive statistics, and inferential statistics form the foundation of scientific analysis. Understanding these concepts strengthened my ability to interpret data, test hypotheses, and make evidence-based conclusions.

I particularly appreciated how the course connected traditional biostatistical principles to emerging trends, especially the increasing role of artificial intelligence in modern data analysis. This exposure prepared me to think critically about how statistical methods are evolving and how to apply them confidently across different disciplines.

One of the most enjoyable components of the program was the practical, hands-on use of research tools and software. Training with platforms such as KoboCollect, Enketo, Google Forms (advanced features), and SurveyMonkey expanded my skills in digital data collection.

This has made me more efficient in designing surveys, collecting field data, and ensuring accurate, high-quality datasets. I also enjoyed working with data entry tools like EpiData and advanced Microsoft Excel.

These tools enhanced my ability to clean, organize, and manage datasets with precision. The practical exercises created a learning environment that was engaging and directly applicable to real-world research scenarios.

The data analysis and visualization sessions were especially valuable. Using software such as SPSS, SAS, R-Studio, Power BI, and Tableau deepened my understanding of quantitative analysis and data reporting.

I learned how to perform descriptive and inferential statistics, analyze trends, create dashboards, and visually present data in ways that support better decision-making.
I particularly enjoyed the creativity involved in developing interactive dashboards and visual reports.

These tools allow me to communicate insights clearly and help stakeholders understand complex information at a glance. This skill is essential in environments where quick and accurate data interpretation is required.

The knowledge gained from this program is highly beneficial to my field of work in the gold mining sector. Mining operations rely heavily on accurate data for environmental monitoring, community engagement, occupational health and safety, production performance, risk management, and compliance reporting.

Mastering these tools allows me to analyze large operational and environmental datasets with greater precision. In alignment with my responsibilities in Administration, Community Relations, OHS, Corporate Reporting, and Monitoring & Evaluation, this program has significantly strengthened my analytical capabilities.

I can now apply statistical techniques confidently across multiple operational areas, improving the quality of insights I generate for decision-makers.
From an administrative and reporting perspective, the training in advanced Excel, Power BI, and Tableau has improved my ability to prepare detailed reports, track KPIs, monitor trends, and support senior management with accurate, data-driven information.

In Community Relations and M&E, digital data collection tools help me manage stakeholder engagements, assess project impact, and ensure transparency in reporting. For OHS, the program’s focus on statistical analysis and hypothesis testing enables me to identify safety trends, assess risks, and evaluate the effectiveness of interventions.

Overall, the program’s hands-on and practical approach has enhanced my professional competence and strengthened my capacity to support efficient, compliant, and socially responsible mining operations.

I really enjoyed how the program focused on practical research tools and software widely used in biostatistics. The hands-on demonstrations made it easy to understand how to apply statistical concepts using real datasets.

The trainers were experienced and explained complex concepts clearly. Their step-by-step approach and willingness to answer questions created a very supportive learning environment. I particularly enjoyed the classes taken by Ms. Anisha, Ms. Belinda and Mr. Richard, they made the classes really fun and interactive, easy to understand.

I appreciated the opportunity to work directly with advanced biostatistical software such as Tableau, SPSS, Power BI. Being able to navigate these tools with expert guidance was extremely valuable for my research development.

I appreciated not just the practical training, but also the collaborative environment created during the course. Being able to work with classmates and mentors on grant-writing and research proposal development was particularly enriching. It gave me insight into how to apply analytical tools in crafting evidence based, compelling grant applications.

Participating in the Research Tools & Software in Biostatistics program was an enriching experience that strengthened both my technical capacity and confidence in handling complex data tasks.

I particularly enjoyed how each module was structured to build upon the previous one, creating a coherent learning journey from foundational concepts to advanced analytical tools.

The exposure to statistical symbols and their real-world application helped deepen my understanding of core bio-statistical principles, making it easier to appreciate the logic behind various analytical techniques used in research.

The program was especially engaging because it blended theory with hands-on practice. Learning to work with tools such as Enketo, KoboCollect, Google Forms’ advanced features, and SurveyMonkey showed me how versatile and powerful modern data-collection platforms can be.

These sessions were practical, interactive, and directly relevant to my social science fieldwork, which made me appreciate the importance of choosing the right tool for different data-collection environments.

I enjoyed being able to compare platforms and understand the strengths each brings to research. Another highlight for me was exploring a diverse range of data-analysis and visualization software.

Working with Power BI, SAS, SPSS, Tableau, and R-Studio exposed me to a wide ecosystem of analytical tools that are shaping the future of evidence-based decision making.

I particularly enjoyed seeing how artificial intelligence is being integrated into tools like SPSS to enhance analytical efficiency.

The modules on descriptive and inferential statistics, hypothesis testing, and statistics in decision making brought everything together, allowing me to apply the tools in meaningful ways and interpret results with greater accuracy.

Overall, what I enjoyed most was how the program made biostatistics approachable, modern, and relevant. The blend of classical statistical foundations with cutting-edge digital tools gave me a well-rounded skill set that I can confidently apply in real-world projects.

The practical in class discussions, expert facilitation, and the opportunity to work with industry-standard platforms made the learning experience both empowering and inspiring.

This program has not only deepened my appreciation for biostatistics but has also strengthened my ability to contribute effectively to data-driven work across multiple disciplines.

The program was an eye opener I enjoyed the flexibility and interacting sessions with all our lectures for all the 17 courses we had from project implementation overview, the different types of research methods quantitative and qualitative research methods,

Most especially project proposal writing was one of the courses I enjoyed so much because many times I would ask myself what really is a project why should we write a project so during our sessions with our various lectures I got to know that project proposals are made to secure funds and to secure this funds we most have organized our ideas chronologically to tailor or be in line with the problem we have identified and intend to solve by writing it out convincingly to gain stakeholders or the funders attention.

I also enjoyed how the team work part of the program because for almost every session we had two lectures who were always on time and followed each other closely the first lecturer take a the first half of the session and the second lecturer without any waste of time would continue immediately from where the first lecturer stopped and it made our lessons so focused and interactive

I also very much enjoyed the part of writing an effective literature review which is the backbone of any research study because it's provides the basis, the foundation of the existing research and identifies areas of agreement and disagreement amongst scholars.

Not forgetting all the other supporting courses that go hand in hand with the research methods and implementation. It was a great and wonderful course because our lecturers made it very interesting and interactive during our zoom classes.

The course was highly practical and hands-on, with immediate use of real datasets in R, SPSS enabling quick mastery of advanced techniques like survival analysis and logistic regression.

The instructors were experienced biostatisticians from clinical and public health backgrounds, extremely supportive, and excellent at explaining complex topics clearly.

A major strength was the emphasis on reproducible research, teaching modern tools like R studio, shareable, and well-structured analyses.

The small batch size fostered strong peer connections, ongoing community support via WhatsApp, plus lifetime access to recordings and updated materials, adding excellent long-term value. Overall, it was one of the most enjoyable and career-boosting short courses.

One of the things I enjoyed most about the program was the structured and practical approach to research and project implementation. The sessions were not only informative but also designed in a way that helped me understand how to transform an idea into a well-organized academic or professional project. I appreciated the balance between theory and application, which made the learning process both engaging and meaningful.

I also enjoyed the way the program encouraged critical thinking and personal reflection. It pushed me to examine my own academic journey, identify my strengths, and recognize areas where I needed to grow. This experience helped me gain more confidence in my ability to plan, execute, and present research projects effectively. It was motivating to see how much clarity and direction I gained through each module

Another aspect I truly appreciated was the supportive and interactive learning environment. The facilitators provided guidance with patience and expertise, and I found the peer engagement very enriching. Listening to other participants’ perspectives and experiences opened my mind and helped me understand research from different angles. This sense of community made the program even more rewarding.

Overall, the program was an inspiring and transformative experience for me. It strengthened my academic discipline, improved my communication skills, and expanded my understanding of research methodology. Most importantly, it shaped the way I think about my future goals and gave me the tools to pursue them more confidently. I left the program feeling more prepared, more focused, and more motivated to continue developing as a researcher.Through this program,i managed to secure a fully funded PhD scholarship at one of the best university in morocco ( number one in morocco ). Really grateful for this opportunity you gave me to be part of FISORI

I enjoyed adding knowledge on how to use tools and software used in biostatics
as these skills I gained will help so much in my daily activities as a researcher in health. field

My participation in the Research Tools and Software in Biostatistics program hosted by the FREYA International School of Research and FISORI, was a transformative experience that significantly bridged the gap between theoretical biostatistical concepts and practical application. The program's focus on the essential tools and software used in the various stages of research methodologies provided a robust foundation for designing and conducting high-quality tech-oriented research. As the program expertly transitioned from fundamental principles to advanced analytical techniques, my major highlight was in learning to explore and navigate large datasets with precision confidence.

The online delivery via the True Talk Learning Management System enhanced the learning experience by providing a flexible, yet structured learning environment. The program's organized course modules and an intuitive interface made technical learning accessible regardless of the geographical locations and the time zones. The interactive live sessions with the lecturers enabled blended learning and active participation.

One of the most rewarding aspects of the program was the hands-on exposure to the standard software and tools essential for modern biostatistical work. Gaining proficiency in the use of R-Studio, SPSS and advanced features of Excel empowered me to automate data cleaning, perform complex hypothesis testing and creating publication-quality visualizations.

Ultimately, the program fostered in me a comprehensive understanding of how to translate raw data into actionable insights. The guidance of experts tutors equipped me to support evidence-based decision-making in public health. This professional development has provided me with an invaluable toolkit for contributing meaningfully to the scientific community in my country and beyond.

The program was well packaged, with vast information regarding the research and project implementation. I enjoyed appreciating a variety of new concepts like referencing styles and tools, writing an effective literature review among others which are fundamental to my early career research development.

The interaction with the participants across almost all parts of the world increased my social network and also facilitated my learning of the different cultural diversities.

The program also had most of the concepts that one ought to appreciate in order to navigate this competitive world of opportunities such as presentation styles, use of technology, communication skills, time management among others.

The assessment component at every end of the module was something very vital that enabled me to gauge my stand after learning the module. Further more, award of certificates after each module and the entire program was a remarkable achievement in my journey of academia.