Data Needs To Be Accessible
A challenge with the availability and use of data for those who need it.
The collected and linked data is not easily accessible to those who need it, such as students, workers, employers, educators, policymakers, etc. Data must be made available, but beyond the technical availability of the data, we also need to consider the usability, timeliness, and affordability of data.
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Can those who need the data access it?
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Can they access the data in a format that is understandable and useful?
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Can they access the data in a timely manner?
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Do they need additional resources or technical support to access the data?
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Can they access data in a way that is secure and ensures privacy?
Accessible Data Requires
Usability
Data should be shared or presented in a way that is usable by the intended audience. Includes providing data in formats that are understandable and actionable by non-experts.
Timeliness
Up-to-date data may exist but can be delayed in reaching stakeholders
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Affordability
Data access should not be hindered by prohibitive costs or paywalls.
Example of Considerations for Broadening Data Access
Academic researchers access longitudinal data on students (learning records and educational outcomes) in the Texas Education Research Centers environment, but not every researcher has the technical knowledge and resources to access the data. These challenges —financial, capacity, (requirement for specialized skills or software), and platform access—are examples of potential barriers to expanding data access.
