Qualitative research data, like interviews, information from focus groups, or journals, are a significant part of the data made available for reuse through the DANS Data Stations. The richness of information makes qualitative data interesting for reuse, however, reusing qualitative data also brings unique challenges. The anonimisation of personal data is complex and a concise description of the context of the data is essential for the person reusing the data so they have the right information to draw conclusions from. Many guidelines regarding open science and data management focus on quantitative data. Therefore, DANS published a guide addressing the challenges specific to making qualitative data available for reuse, called ‘Making Qualitative Data Reusable’.
This guide has now been updated, after careful consideration of user feedback and additions from experts we’ve collected last summer.
Following the life cycle
The guide is structured along the research data life cycle, providing tips for improving the reusability of qualitative data in every phase.
A chapter on the pre-registration of studies using qualitative data has been added in the updated version of the guide. The new version also contains an expansion on the ethical aspects of qualitative data, in particular the CARE principles. Additionally, the decision tree has been expanded to properly highlight the various options to make data available for reuse. Readers can now go through separate decision trees with a focus on personal data, sensitivity and legal aspects.
The updated version of the guide is available through Zenodo and downloadable for anyone. We are grateful for all the feedback and contributions we have received and hope the updated version of the guide contributes to improving the reusability of qualitative datasets, in the DANS Data Stations and beyond.
On 11 February, DANS Data Station Manager Ricarda Braukman will present the updated Guidebook during the Love Data Week of the Flemish Research Data Network. Find more information or register for the event here.
