Data

Data

Collected observations or measurements represented as text, numbers, or multimedia.

Qualitative Data

Data that include textual descriptions of events, maps, pictures, or transcripts.

Quantitative Data

Data that can be expressed as a number and counted or compared on a numerical scale.

Statistics

The result of data analysis and interpretation, different from raw data.

Examples of Qualitative Data

Textual descriptions, maps, pictures, transcripts.

Examples of Quantitative Data

Rating scales, observed temperatures, counts of words or attendees.

Importance of Data

Helps identify patterns and trends, offers solutions to problems, and improves understanding of phenomena.

Research Impact Example

For studying wildfires on national parks, data may include satellite maps and images.

Data Representation Formats

Can be expressed as text, numbers, multimedia, including videos and photographs.

Library's Finding Data Guide

Resource for learning more about finding, accessing, and using data.