What is encompassed within "data integrity"?

"Data integrity" refers specifically to the accuracy and consistency of data collected throughout a research study. It is crucial because maintaining data integrity ensures that the findings of the research are reliable and valid. When data is accurate, it correctly represents the phenomenon being studied, while consistency ensures that the data remains dependable across different time points or different conditions.

This concept is fundamental in research because compromised data integrity can lead to incorrect conclusions, misinterpretations, and undermine the overall quality of the research work. Ensuring data integrity involves implementing proper data management practices, including validation procedures at the data collection phase, regular audits, and maintaining documentation to track data sources.

Other factors such as public perception of data, the volume of data, and the methods of data analysis, while relevant in a broader context, do not directly define data integrity itself. Data integrity is solely focused on how faithfully the data reflects the reality it is meant to represent and whether it remains consistent throughout the research process.