In recent years, managing research data has become an increasingly important feature of the research lifecycle. However, many students and researchers receive little or no training related to understanding and managing research data. What exactly is research data and what activities are associated with with managing this information?
Research Data can be defined as "The recorded, retrievable, information and/or forms of evidence collected, generated or created in the pursuit of new knowledge and is necessary to validate research outputs" (Duke University. Research Policy Manual). Research Data Management (RDM) can be characterized as "...a concept used to describe the managing, sharing, and archiving of research data to make it more accessible to the broader research community" (Longwood Research Data Management. Data Management Terminology). This guide aims to provide an overview of common research data management questions, activities, and areas of support provided by GW Libraries.
The research data lifecycle is frequently used as a tool to discuss and visualize different activities associated with managing research data. Although there are numerous versions of the research data lifecycle, most include tasks such as planning, collecting, processing, analyzing, preserving, sharing, and reusing data.
Understanding the different activities associated with the research data lifecycle helps researchers to adhere to the FAIR Principles for data management. The FAIR Principles were established in 2016 and help to ensure that research data is findable, accessible, interoperable, and reusable. This guide provides an overview of the areas of support at GW linked to the various phases of the research lifecycle. It also provides guidance related to additional RDM tools and resources.
"Data life cycle diagram" by RDMkit is licensed under CC BY 4.0
GW Libraries and Academic Innovation (GWLAI) can help to support many common data management tasks associated with the different phases of the data research lifecycle. We can also help to connect you with other groups at GW that support research data management activities. A full list of services can be found on the GWLAI Data Services website. Common data management related tasks and areas for support include:
| Stage | Common Tasks | GW LAI Support | Additional Resources |
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| Planning for Data Management |
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| Collecting Data |
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| Processing Data |
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| Analyzing Data |
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| Preserving Data |
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| Sharing Data |
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| Reusing Data |
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Contact us for support at libdata@gwu.edu or book an appointment with a data services librarian.
Looking to build your data management skills? The following resources and tutorials can help get you started.
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