Being data-aware means understanding what data is and how it can be used to generate new knowledge, make decisions, or solve problems. It's about recognizing opportunities where data can be valuable and understanding the risks associated with its use.
You don’t need to be an expert in data analysis to be data-aware. However, knowing what data looks like, what it can do, and what it can’t do is the foundation of data literacy.
As a researcher, you generate data at multiple points throughout the research lifecycle. Imagine you’re a student conducting research for a science project on plant growth. Throughout your research, you’ll be creating and handling various types of data:
Plant Samples: Collecting different plant specimens to test their growth in various conditions.
Photos and Videos: Taking images and recording videos to document the growth stages of the plants.
Survey Responses: Gathering feedback from classmates on their observations of plant growth.
Spreadsheets: Using Excel to record and analyze measurements of plant height and leaf count.
Raw Data Files: All of the above would be considered raw data because you haven’t done any processing to the data you collected. As you gather this data, it's essential to be aware of what you're collecting, how you're recording it, and how you’ll manage and share it. Understanding these aspects ensures that you handle your research ethically and effectively, from organizing your data to presenting your findings.
In today’s digital world, you’re not just using apps and websites—you’re also contributing data that gets collected. Being data-aware means knowing what information is being gathered about you and how it's being used. Remember, you're both a consumer and a product in this data-driven age. Staying informed helps you safeguard your privacy and make informed choices.
When you're working with data collected by others, it’s important to be critical and thoughtful. Ask yourself:
Where Did This Data Come From? Find out the original source to ensure it’s reliable.
Are There Any Biases or Agendas? Consider who collected the data and their possible motivations.
What Can I Learn From This? Evaluate the data’s relevance and usefulness for your needs.
Understanding these aspects helps you use data responsibly and make informed decisions.