Mapping the hinterland: Data issues in open science. (January 2016)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Grand, Ann; Wilkinson, Clare; Bultitude, Karen; Winfield, Alan F. T.
• Is Part Of: Public understanding of science. Volume 25:Number 1(2016:Jan.)
• Page Start: 88
• Page End: 103
• Publication Date: 2016-01
• Subjects: open science -- public engagement -- science communication; Science news -- Periodicals; Science -- Social aspects -- Periodicals; 303.483
• DOI: 10.1177/0963662514530374
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0963-6625

Abstract

Open science is a practice in which the scientific process is shared completely and in real time. It offers the potential to support information flow, collaboration and dialogue among professional and non-professional participants. Using semi-structured interviews and case studies, this research investigated the relationship between open science and public engagement. This article concentrates on three particular areas of concern that emerged: first, how to effectively contextualise and narrate information to render it accessible, as opposed to simply available; second, concerns about data quantity and quality; and third, concerns about the skills required for effective contextualisation, mapping and interpretation of information.