Session: #617

Theme & Session Format

Theme:
2. Archaeological Sciences, Humanities and the Digital era: Bridging the Gaps
Session format:
Regular session

Title & Content

Title:
From Lots of Data to Big Data: Strategies for Quality, Reusability, and Accessibility of Databases
Content:
In this session, we aim to explore the use of databases in managing the increasing volume of information produced in the field of archaeology. As we transition from dealing with “Lots of Data” to grappling with the ever more present concept of “Big Data” and the challenges that follows, one of the key challenges is the integration of legacy data with the continuous influx of new information. This task is not only about managing the volume of data, but also to ensure the quality, relevance, and accessibility of the data.
By building on the principles of FAIR – Findability, Accessibility, Interoperability and Reusability as described in Wilkinson et al. (2016), it ensures that data is not only accumulated but also effectively utilized and shared. Currently, the time and effort involved in understanding the semantics of various databases is overwhelming, however, the field of archaeology strives to adapt to new technologies by stepping into transdisciplinary collaborations.
Key questions
• What strategies can be employed to ensure the quality and relevance of data in databases?
• How can we effectively integrate new information with legacy data without compromising data integrity?
• What are the challenges in transitioning from traditional datasets to Big Data, and how can they be addressed?
• What setbacks have been encountered in the process of data management, and what lessons can be learned from them?
• How can the use of databases assist in shaping our field and the archaeological discourse?
We want to look into the principles of FAIR, and the different strategies for its implementation in databases. We welcome presentations from organizations and projects that are currently battling these issues. We want to hear about your innovative solutions, insights, and your setbacks. Our aim is to foster mutual learning and cultivate improved practices through sharing experiences.
Keywords:
Big Data, FAIR, Databases
Session associated with MERC:
no
Session associated with CIfA:
no
Session associated with SAfA:
no
Session associated with CAA:
no
Session associated with DGUF:
no
Session associated with other:

Organisers

Main organiser:
Nicoline Schjerven (Sweden) 1
Co-organisers:
Fredrik Dahlberg (Sweden) 1
Giacomo Bilotti (Germany) 2
Affiliations:
1. University of Gothenburg
2. Christian-Albrechts-Universität zu Kiel