Module 5: Learning Objectives

• Explain the importance of good data management in ensuring research integrity.
• Describe why changing or manipulating data can compromise interpretation of the results.

This section includes a brief overview of some issues related to responsibly handling information collected in research. To maintain the confidentiality and accuracy (i.e., validity) of the information collected during research, any information collected about an individual should be handled with care through proper documentation and secure storage. Failure to properly handle research information may result in wasting resources, violating confidentiality, and failing to answer the research question(s) (i.e., adding unknown (random) error to the study). To avoid these serious consequences, research information should be properly documented and stored and the information provided by a research participant should never be changed or altered.