Data Autonomy

How can data strengthen the mission of the UG?

Without data there are no e-mails, no shared agendas, no (video)calls, no notifications, no documents, no assignments, no degree certificates, and no research contents. This is so obvious that we hardly ever think about it. What is less obvious however, is how the data we generate everyday as a public institution is being stored, analysed, and (re)used.

Data Autonomy aims at increasing awareness on these issues, in order to develop a better understanding of how data can be used to the benefit of the legitimate stakeholders.

Which kind of datafied university do we want to be in a world where new digital technologies such as Artificial Intelligence play an increasingly important role? How do we stay in control of our data, knowledge, experiences, and skills? How can we make sure that data from academic institutions such as the University of Groningen are being (re)used for the right purposes?

As of October 2023 Data Autonomy has become one of the main themes of the Jantina Tammes School of Digital Society, Technology & Artificial Intelligence. The project was started in 2022 by the Center for Information Technology (CIT), and is carried out in cooperation with the University Library, as well as other interested partners active on the national and international level.

After a series of events that took place to gain insight into what the various stakeholders (e.g. students, researchers, teachers, professionals) within the UG understand by the concept of 'Data Autonomy', the launch event 'Data Autonomy, Let's do it!' took place on 22 June 2023.