4.1 What is data?

• Data


  One or more values that can be assigned to an object
• Data can assume any form – numbers, characters, pieces of text, pictures or sounds
• Data has no context
• Data


  • 8848 metres
• Data, on its own, isn't very useful
• Information


  Data placed within a context
• Information


  • According to my Fitbit, we have just walked 8848 metres.
  • Towering 8848 metres above sea level, Mount Everest is the tallest mountain on Earth.
• Computer programs process data
• Computer programs transform data into information by imposing structure on data to make it meaningful to human beings
• Traditionally data is always used as a plural noun
• Computer scientists, as well as almost all journalists, tend to treat data as a singular noun
• Either form is acceptable, but it is crucial to be consistent in your writing