How "Accessible" Are Open Data? Context and Support for Using Open Data in Schools

• In Event: 31.012 - Cross-Cutting Session 3. On Measuring and Evaluating Education: Why Culture, Context, and Ways of Knowing Matter

Abstract

Context-related information plays a key role in understanding and using open data as educational resource. However, such information is rarely provided with datasets. This study examined the nature of context and support related information available with open datasets. We sampled 200 datasets from Canada, USA and UK open data portals and extracted text descriptions (provided by data providers) and online conversations between users and data providers. We segmented the text into idea units and open coded using constant comparison approach. Results showed that descriptions were too brief and focus on three issues. Users’ concerns related to four themes. Findings provide insight about ways of organizing and providing open data resources. We also provide suggestions about learning design with open data.

Authors

• Engida Hailye Gebre, Simon Fraser University

• Esteban Morales, Simon Fraser University