General Principles and Practices of Digital Data Management

Abstract

This teaching unit, presented here as a slideshow, provides an overview of digital data management principles for anthropologists. This is one of five modules on data management in Anthropology. Data management is an essential component of any research project, yet is rarely taught. The four sub-disciplinary Anthropology modules are intended as a rapid and brief introduction to fill that gap. They cover data management from project design to research dissemination, including design specifications, formats, preservation and access. The module is aimed at practicing anthropologists and at anthropologists in training (students) as well as independent scholars and language activists, and will serve linguists equally well. The module can be covered in a 2-day intensive course, as a week-long part of a longer course, or as self-study materials. Topics are covered in bullet-point form, so that instructors and participants can elaborate and adapt the materials according to their own needs and circumstances. Extensive references and exercises are included.