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- Data acquisition is the process of obtaining and recording primary experimental information.
- Proper data acquisition and record keeping is an essential feature of experimental science and technology. It provides the foundation information on which subsequent data analysis and generalizations are based. Without good data collection and record keeping, all subsequent use of the data is tainted by questionable authenticity and accountability. Proper record keeping is of vital importance for patentable inventions
What do scientists recognize as data?
- Quantitative: Recorded numbers, graphs and charts of numerical raw experimental results, and instrument output including photographs and digital images from which quantitative date can be derived
- Qualitative: Notes of any type, some types of instrument output, photos, movies, and digital images
- Original samples in unanalyzed form: e.g., biological specimens
- Research tools: Protocols; computer software
Adapted from Virginia Commonwealth University
ANOTHER WAY OF CLASSIFYING DATA
- Raw data: Information obtained directly from experiments, surveys, etc. Includes information in laboratory notebooks and instrument output; may include information in computers.
- Processed data: Graphs, equations, tables, descriptions, summaries, and conclusions derived from raw data but not yet released to the public.
- Published data: Information distributed to people beyond those involved in data acquisition and project adminstration. Theses and dissertations are published when they become available to the public in a library.
Adapted from University of Minnesota
Objectivity is a basic principle of scientific investigation. It is not easy, even for people with the the best intentions, to acquire, process, and report data in an unbiased way, but that is the goal to which scientists aspire. Skill at avoiding bias comes with experience, but depends mainly on understanding the goal and carefully thinking through how to achieve it.
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