Data Handling


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Considerations: 

  • When storing data, keep a master copy of the data and create another working file. This will ensure you have a backup and the original data collection file. 
  • ​Choose file names carefully to reflect the project, date, and version of the file 
  • Keep file names short but meaningful 
  • Avoid special characters and spaces 
  • Keep track of the different versions of the data so you can see which transformations were applied 
  • It is a good idea to name files according to the type of data they contain, such as attainment, progression... 
  • To indicate that a variable has been recoded or dummyfied, the variable name may include a prefix that indicates the transformation 
  • Sensitive data files should be encrypted. Unsolicited users cannot access your data if they are password-protected. 
  • Where possible and when necessary, anonymise sensitive data 
  • Don’t retain sensitive data for longer than necessary for GDPR purposes 
  • Analytical outputs in research reports must be aggregated or anonymised to ensure participants are not identifiable and not left in a vulnerable position for sensitive topics 
  • Consider sending your data to a repository such as the UK data service in the required format upon completion of your project 
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