Research Data Reshaping Cultural Society: Case of the Lebanese University

Abstract

Research Data Management (RDM) is a new practice in Lebanese academic institutions. The purpose of this study is to assess technological and organizational needs of one of those institutions, the Lebanese University (LU). A questionnaire was sent to academics from all faculties and branches at LU. The survey measured the demographics of survey respondents, their use of data, the degree of openness and the readiness of researchers to manage, share, and preserve datasets. Results described the concerns, challenges and level of commitment of the researchers to data management and sharing. They revealed a moderate level of awareness of information literacy and RDM practices and gave a preliminary figure of the quantity of data generated at LU allowing participants to express their needs. The paper offers guidance for developing a collection of services to support different activities in this area.