Data and Methodologies
Datasets
Social science research findings are important because they affect everyone. Collections of digital information and data are commonly described as datasets. This three part resource, written with input from the Economic and Social Data Service (ESDS), explores datasets - their role in social science research, how they are accessed and managed.
Access, uses and management
Using ESDS data for teaching
Key points to remember when creating and managing data
Complete resource
This resource was written by Pamela (Readhead) Merritt
Useful links
Economic and Social Data Service website: www.esds.ac.uk
One of the UK's major data collections is the ESDS Catalogue, which contains over 5,000 datasets. Among these are 35 social survey datasets which have been tailor-made for teaching purposes.
Dataset catalogue: www.esds.ac.uk/findingdata/aboutcat.asp
Teaching resources: www.esds.ac.uk/resources/teaching .asp
Dataset guides: www.esds.ac.uk/support/datasetguides
European Social Survey: www.europeansocialsurvey.org
The ESS is a good example of an international dataset. Now in its fifth round, the survey is designed to chart and explain the interaction between Europe's changing institutions and the attitudes, beliefs and behaviour patterns of its diverse populations.
Data Archive:www.data-archive.ac.uk
The UK Data Archive is the UK's largest collection of digital research data in the social sciences and humanities. Useful guidance and training materials on data sharing and data management can be found at www.data-archive.ac.uk/create-manage