Exercise 3
Critically examine the research data lifecycleThe research data lifecycle model represents all the phases that research data can go through, from the point of collection to their reuse. These phases are linked to specific tasks and may vary (Forschungsdaten.info, 2023). Generally, the research data lifecycle includes the following stages: Read More model: What limitations and difficulties arise for qualitative research?
(If necessary, conduct additional research at: https://forschungsdaten.info/themen/informieren-und-planen/datenlebenszyklus/ in German).
Proposed Solution
- A research project and its course in empirical and qualitative disciplines cannot always be planned or predicted in advance.
- The field is often flexible, spontaneous, and not as rigid as the lifecycle model presents it.
- Research involving people can involve changes of opinion, difficulties in establishing contact, etc. It must always be considered that informed consent may be withdrawn.
- Awareness of the availability of data, as modeled in the data lifecycle, may influence participants’ statements. The question arises: Does planning research data management restrict openness, curiosity, and responsibility in the field – ultimately affecting research freedom?
- In the research data lifecycle, data are regarded as independent entities that continue to „live“ beyond the research process. However, references to processuality and the subjective-affective influence on collected data by the researcher are missing. Throughout and beyond the research, data may transform, expand, or develop (also through implicit, embodied knowledge), which the data lifecycle model does not account for.