Images to Describe Research Data: A Case Study on the Use of Imagery Metadata

Abstract

Research data management includes activities that organize and manage the life of a research project and is crucial for consistent work performance. Some activities are related to the description, which is a fundamental step, since it allows data to be properly documented and interpreted, promoting their subsequent reuse and sharing. The description is usually done through text, but other typologies can also be used, such as images, taking advantage of their potential and particular characteristics to promote description. We used a qualitative method of investigation through an exploratory case study. We conducted 16 semi-structured interviews, with researchers who have produced, described, and published research data, in order to understand how images can assume the role of metadata in data description. We found that all interviewees would like to have the possibility of describing data with images, but they consider that the publishing platforms have to be prepared for this. Most researchers were able to identify descriptors that could include images and also describe those that they consider being the greatest advantages of the project. All researchers consider that images as metadata would be a more direct gateway to the data. The issue of data description through resources other than text has never been properly investigated. The existing literature does not develop the theme, although images have had an abrupt growth in society and science. This work aims to open new paths, raise new ideas and raise awareness of new and original practices.