Research data model
This is the most complex module of the core ontology, modelling the following kinds of information:
- Skeletal collections and the objects curated within them
These can be either skeletal elements or other materials like casts, models or documents - Curational information on objects in skeletal collections
- Materials that are necessary to understand skeletal collections
These can be object documentations, objects of comparison documents from former collectors' estates. - Institutions holding skeletal collections or being involved in research on material from such collections
- People involved in the curation of skeletal collections or in research on material from such collections
- Research and other kinds of projects involving material from skeletal collections
- Methods and research designs employed for investigations as parts of research projects
- Research materials
These can be all sorts of images, measurements, software outputs etc. - Research output
This can be reports or publications resulting from research projects.
The research data model unites information from collection management with data from osteological and historical research. It aims at creating a concise record of research conducted on the material from skeletal collections, both in a historical dimension and by documenting current activity. Two objectives are served by this: to create collection histories and to provide well-documented scientific results for re-use in future studies.
Our ontology extends the VIVO ontology to include specific information on research in physical anthropology. In doing this, it confirms to general mechanisms established in the VIVO ontology.
In addition, collection management information is intended to be also expressed according to the Europeana Data Model (EDM). This strategy intends to help institutions curating skeletal collections to contribute information on their material to the Europeana network.
Information on biological research, on the other hand, is intended to comply with the Ontology for Biomedical Investigations (OBI). This facilitates data uploads to specialist data platforms and maximises compatibility with other Open Biological and Biomedical Ontologies (OBO).
The following sections provide specific information on how to model certain kinds of information within the research data model.
- Addressing objects in collections and other related contexts
- Identification and Reference Systems
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Investigations
- Investigation Planning
- Investigation Execution
- Conclusions from Investigations
- Documentation of Investigations
- Describing organisational structures
- Addressing people in various contexts
- Relating documents to other entities
- Making notes on research data
