Core Concept: Open Data is the practice of making the underlying data supporting research findings freely available. This is represented in the Citizen Science portal display by the “Verified Data” and “Local Data Validation” modules. Crucially, Open Data at UPSI is governed by Research Data Management (RDM) and the FAIR Principles, as detailed in our operational framework.
Detailed Explanation: Open Data means that the raw measurements, survey responses, experimental results, and other datasets created during research can be accessed, used, used again, and redistributed freely. To be truly ‘Open,’ this data must adhere to the FAIR principles:
- Findable: The data must have unique identifiers (like DOIs) and descriptive metadata so others can locate it.
- Accessible: There must be clear protocols for accessing the data, ideally with standard licenses (e.g., Creative Commons).
- Interoperable: Data must use standard formats and vocabularies so it can be combined with other datasets.
- Reusable: Data must have rich documentation and clear usage rights.
The RDM Framework (Key Operational Element): RDM is the systematic process of managing data throughout the entire research lifecycle. It ensures that the FAIR principles are applied at every step. This requires:
- Polisi & Proses: Defining what data is shared and how it is managed.
- Platform (Infrastructure): This is where the sWADAH Stream system comes in, acting as the Data Repository, Aggregator, and Curation platform.
- Pengguna/Warga: The human element—training researchers and data stewards to manage and deposit data correctly.
Importance in Open Science:
- Validation and Reproducibility: Allows other researchers to verify findings and replicate experiments.
- Innovation: Fresh analyses of existing data can lead to new discoveries.
- Efficiency: Reduces duplication of effort in creating similar datasets.
Implementation at UPSI (as per Agenda): UPSI has a clear timeline to make Open Data a reality. 2025 is dedicated to developing the RDM Policy, training data stewards via the ASM Data Stewardship Programme, and pilot testing the RDM system. By 2026, the RDM system will be fully implemented, making FAIR-compliant data sharing a standard part of UPSI’s research ecosystem.