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BRIEF

Microdata Documentation, Protection, and Dissemination

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In an ever-evolving world where data plays a crucial role in decision-making and policy formulation, the importance of accurate and secure microdata management cannot be overstated. To equip data professionals with the necessary tools and knowledge, the LSMS-led Center for Development Data (C4D2) organized a comprehensive training session in Perugia, Italy from July 14 to 18. The training was hosted by the Bank of Italy at its residential training facility (S.A.Di.Ba.), in the context of the C4D2-Training Initiative. The training focused on Microdata Documentation, Protection, and Dissemination, and targeted an audience of staff from regional statistical training center from anglophone and francophone Sub-Saharan Africa. Participating Centers included: , , , , ,  and . 

The Course

The training was organized in two parts:

  1. Microdata Anonymization: This segment delved into tools and methods for effectively anonymizing microdata while preserving data integrity. Participants gained insights into statistical disclosure scenarios, measures of disclosure risk, and various methods to mitigate the risk of respondent reidentification. 
  2. Metadata Standards and Cataloguing: The second part of the course introduced the use of international metadata standards, particularly the DDI Codebook and Dublin Core, for documenting and cataloguing microdata. During engaging hands-on sessions, attendees documented a survey dataset and published standard-compliant metadata in an online data catalog.

The course was delivered in English and French, and included a mix of lectures on theory and practical hands-on sessions.

The expectation is that, with follow-up support by the C4D2-Training Initiative, trainees will be able to incorporate essential element of the course in the curricula of the Regional Statistical Training Centers, as well as use the skills acquired in their other teaching and advisory activities. As data continues to drive progress and development, such training programs remain essential pillars in the journey towards a data-driven future.

Course Materials: