Data Archive

The Data Archive is a service of the Computing and Information Core providing a full range of data services to research associates. Our service profile includes: traditional reference services; deploying resources that facilitate access to holdings; verifying the accuracy of data in relation to documentation and fully documenting the sources and nature of newly constructed variables and files; providing training in the use of electronic resources; troubleshooting statistical application code; providing customized data programming; performing media conversion; and advising on and assisting with data management and archival procedures. The breadth of staff expertise across many data collections, statistical applications, and efficient resource utilization continues to be an asset to researchers.

Data Access and Dissemination

The majority of archival holdings are served from a networked UNIX workstation equipped with fifty gigabytes of online storage. Researchers with accounts on SRC's UNIX network have access to the full archive at all times. Those without accounts at SRC can request that data be placed on our anonymous FTP server. Alternatively, clients may request that staff prepare a customized CD-ROM.

The "Data on CD" program group in SRC's public desktop cluster links clients to 40 social science data collections and Microsoft Windows-based data applications stored on CDROM. Examples of available titles include the Current Population Survey Annual Demographic Files, October Education Supplements and June Fertility/Marriage supplements; the National Education Longitudinal Survey; National Longitudinal Study of Adolescent Health, all cohorts of the NLS, and the Census.

Data Programming and Archival Services

The purpose of the statistical programming and analysis service is to assist in the creation of analytic files from complex surveys and/or data sources. In addition to customized programming exercises, the archive has been actively involved with researchers preparing data for public dissemination. Our activities include evaluating data entry packages, data cleaning applications, and document management software. The archive also has a high-speed, automatic page feed scanner and OCR software to facilitate digitizing printed materials.

For more information on the Data Archive please write Jiaqiang Chen or Sangeeta Sinha.

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