Proceedings Papers
The selection, appraisal, and retention of social science data
Authors:
M Gutmann ,
Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
48104
K Schürer,
UK Data Archive and Economic and Social Data Service, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park,
Colchester, Essex, CO4 3SQ
D Donakowski,
Inter-university Consortium for Political and Social Research, University of Michigan, Ann Arbor, MI
48104
Hilary Beedham
UK Data Archive, University of Essex, Wivenhoe Park, Colchester, Essex, CO4 3SQ
Abstract
The number of data collections produced in the social sciences prohibits the archiving of every scientific study. It is therefore necessary to make decisions regarding what can be preserved and why it should be preserved. This paper reviews the processes used by two data archives, one from the United States and one from the United Kingdom, to illustrate how data are selected for archiving, how they are appraised, and what steps are required to retain the usefulness of the data for future use. It also presents new initiatives that seek to encourage an increase in the long-term preservation of digital resources.
How to Cite:
Gutmann, M., Schürer, K., Donakowski, D. and Beedham, H., 2006. The selection, appraisal, and retention of social science data. Data Science Journal, 3, pp.209–221. DOI: http://doi.org/10.2481/dsj.3.209
Published on
05 Jan 2006.
Peer Reviewed
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