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How to Write a Research Paper: Data, Information, Knowledge

Step by step description of how to write a research paper

Open Access

Open AccessWhen you see this orange, open lock symbol that means that the resources allows  the information to openly accessible, editable, and potentially reuse able. Open Access implies that the information is free from restriction, although there can be some limitations depending on the resource. 

Open Access Resources: 

ArcGIS Open Data:

ArcGIS Open Data is an online, collaborative web GIS that allows you to use, create, and share maps, scenes, apps, layers, analytics, and data. 

Data.gov

Data.gov increases the ability of the public to easily find, download, and use datasets that are generated and held by the Federal Government. 

Data USA

Purpose is to understand and visualize critical issues facing the united States such as jobs, skills, and education. Data and data visualizations cover a large variety of industries and topics. 

Figshare

Digital repository where researchers can preserve and share their research including figures, datasets, images, and videos. 

Everyone Uses Data, Just Differently

How Data is ProcessedThe first thing you should know is the use of data is multidisciplinary. Meaning that people from an discipline may use data in a variety of methods and ways to explore, support, and communicate their research. 

Ways data can be used: 

  • to help predict future sales of a business or environmental changes in the next 10 years. 
  • to explore correlations between two phenomenon you would have placed together.
  • to make a concept understandable, to bring context and communicate to an audience. 
  • to discover trends that may have been unnoticeable by previous methods. 
  • to learn about your community and demographics.

Figure 2.2: http://semanticommunity.info/Data_Science/Doing_Data_Science (2014)

Data Management Checklist

Managing your data before you begin your research and throughout its life cycle is essential to ensure its current usability and long-run preservation and access. Use the checklist below to start the planning process. 

  • What type of data will be produced? 
  • How much data will it be? 
  • How often will it change?
  • Who will use it now or later on? 
  • How long should it be retained? 
  • Are there tools and software needed to create/process/visualize the data?
  • Are there any requirements that need to be met?
  • When and where will I publish it?