Data Management

Data management is one of the nine core areas of RCR instruction that deals with data integrity related issues that researchers should be aware of to conduct research responsibly. Data management overlaps with many of the other core areas of RCR instruction since data is integral to all research endeavors.

The purpose of this online module is to give a brief introduction to integrity issues related to data management and increase researchers’ awareness of such issues. The module is intended for self-paced learning especially by those in the early stages of their research careers and become aware of data management issues that can be encountered when dealing with research data.

This module is organized under the seven topic areas listed below. Click on the ' Topics' option on the top navigation bar to access each topic in this module.

• Overview of Data Management
• Data Selection 
• Data Collection
• Data Handling
• Data Analysis
• Data Publication and Reporting
• Data Ownership

The module may take anywhere between three to five hours to go through the content and the activities fully, depending on one’s background, web navigation skills, and the type of access to the web. Some activities may require downloading freely available plug-ins or players.

The module content was compiled from existing literature and through interviews with faculty researchers at Northern Illinois University. Along with the content, quizzes, games, cases and opportunities for reflection have been included to engage users in the module. But the content and the activities included in the module are by no means comprehensive or conclusive, and are meant only to provide a basic overview of data integrity issues. The type and number of activities included in each topic may vary depending on the scope of the topic.