To maintain consistency in the database, it is important that data are managed following a set procedure. The following steps will assist in ensuring consistency in the data reaching the database.

DATA SHEETS

• Rinse underwater data sheets in fresh water and dry.
• Staple manta data sheets and reef aerial maps together.
• Re-number the tow numbers on the manta data sheet and the reef aerial accordingly to number continuously in a clockwise direction around the reef perimeter. The starting point is labelled as zero and should be the same point as in previous surveys, if known. Tow number one is marked at the end of the first tow (Figure 3). The original tow numbers should not be erased from the data sheets.
• Label each data set for the manta tow and reef aesthetics data with the same sample identification number* for a reef, starting at 001. A different sample identification number is assigned in sequential order to each repeat survey for the fixed (transect) or timed (depth contour) searches.
• Complete the reef aesthetics data sheet using the manta tow data as a guide.

DATA ENTRY

Data is entered into a laptop computer in the field using a Microsoft Access program designed for the AIMS Long-term Monitoring Program, called 'Reefmon'. For a detailed explanation of the AIMS database structure, refer to Baker et al. 1991.

• A sample identification number consists of a two letter code unique to each survey trip, followed by a three digit number starting at 001, eg. AC001. The numbering increments up to 099 and then continues again at 600. The scuba search data follow on in sequence from the manta tow and reef aesthetics data.
• The sample-id is entered for that reef and the 'sample data' (ie. Reef name, location, the type of data, and weather conditions) are entered into a 'sample table'. Note: The data cannot be entered until the sample table is completed.
• The manta tow, reef aesthetics and scuba search data are entered into separate data tables. Each record in the data table is automatically assigned a sample-id from the sample table. The observers' initials are also entered for each record in the data table.
• Enter the last line of the data table and then run the data check before saving and exiting the table.
• Back-up the data to a disk.
• Unload the data from Reefmon to a disk and copy A:\REEFMON.MDB into the C:\REEFMON directory on the office PC to overwrite any existing data files.
• Print the data and check it against the data sheets. Make corrections in Reefmon, before exporting it as a comma delimited text file to the ORACLE database.
• Keep the checked printout on file as a record of data entry errors.
• File the data sheets together with the checked printouts.

AIMS home page

web@aims.gov.au
Last updated - 9 February 98

Copyright ©1996-1998 Australian Institute of Marine Science

URL http://www.aims.gov.au