What is Research Data?
"Research data relates to data collected, generated or used in research. This includes (but is not limited to) data in the form of facts, observations, images, computer program code and results, surveys, recordings, measurements or experiences on which an argument, theory, test or hypothesis, or another research output is based.
Data may be numerical, textual, descriptive, visual, aural or tactile and includes artefacts. It may be raw, learned or processed, and may be held in any format or media. Research data is collected or created, not authored"
Why Manage Your Reseach Data?
Benefits can include:
- Establishing a best-practice culture
- Improving research efficiency and effectiveness
- Increased citations and potential collaboration through advertising of data sets
- Where appropriate making data available for reuse
- Improving value of the dataset
- Well curated data can open up collaboration and funding opportunities
Research Data Management Policies, Guidelines and Codes
CSU Research Data Management Policy
This Policy forms part of the Charles Sturt University (the University) governance framework for research data management by recognising research data as a valuable product of research activity that can assist in promoting open enquiry and debate, complementing research outputs and publications, providing research transparency, and justifying research outcomes.
Good practice in Research Data Management (RDM) is a crucial part of maximising research investment and leveraging your research efforts. RDM includes but is not limited to data retention, accessibility, storage, and security.
RDM is a recommendation of the Australian Code for Responsible Conduct of Research as well as being required by many funding bodies. There is a detailed guide for research data management:
Australian funding bodies' data sharing requirements :
More Information
The Research Office is the central point of contact for researchers, research students, supervisors, managers and research agencies and will provide information and support for the administration and management of research and higher degrees by research (HDR) at CSU.
The Division of Information Technology CSU Framework for Research Data Storage document describes storage options for the management of your data.
The Research Data Management Lifecycle
Adapted original source: The University of California, Santa Cruz, Data Management LibGuide, Research Data Management Lifecycle, diagram. Viewed 22/01/2018
CSU RESEARCH DATA MANAGEMENT TRAINING
CSU offers the ELMO course : Introduction to Research Data Management
CSUs Research Office Professional Development Calendar - offers training on Research Data Management, Nvivo software training, Data Visualization, and more.
