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Maximizing E-Data Collection

A Novel Approach for Data Collection and Transmission Using Tablet Technology

Published online by Cambridge University Press:  16 January 2017

Kayeleigh Sharp  and
Melissa Litschi
Kayeleigh Sharp
Affiliation:
Department of Anthropology, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Faner Building, Room 3525, 1000 Faner Drive, Carbondale, IL 62901 ([email protected])
Melissa Litschi
Affiliation:
Department of Anthropology, Southern Illinois University Carbondale, Faner Building, Room 3525, 1000 Faner Drive, Carbondale, IL 62901 ([email protected])
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Abstract

While tablet devices are becoming commonplace in archaeological research, the transfer of data for analysis is a matter of critical concern. As geographic information systems (GIS) are increasingly incorporated into our archaeological research, there is a need not only to streamline data acquisition, but also to collect data that can be used in conjunction with high-level spatial analytical tools, such as those available in ESRI’s ArcGIS. During a short lab season, various methods of paper-free data collection and cross-platform transfer using these user-friendly devices were tested. It was found that both iPad and Android-based systems present great advantages in terms of portability and electronic data acquisition. However, file compatibility and transfer of data across multiple platforms present a number of important drawbacks. The present case study focuses on the development of a data collection protocol implemented by the Proyecto de Investigación Arqueológica Zaña Valley (PIAZ), Peru, that moves beyond these limitations. The ultimate incorporation of data collected using tablet devices demonstrates the potential for this tool in archaeological research, along with the pitfalls for projects that rely heavily on GIS. Significant findings regarding the advantages, as well as the limitations, of e-data collection, transfer, and storage are discussed.

Aunque las tabletas digitales se están volviendo más comunes en la investigación arqueológica, la transferencia de datos para su análisis es un asunto crítico. Mientras que la incorporación de los sistemas de información geográfica (SIG) a la investigación arqueológica ha ido en aumento, no sólo existe la necesidad de simplificar la adquisición de los datos, sino también de recopilar datos que puedan utilizarse junto con herramientas analíticas espaciales de alto nivel, como lo son aquellas disponibles en ESRI o ArcGIS. Durante una corta temporada de laboratorio, se pusieron a prueba distintos métodos libres de uso de papel para la recolección de datos y para su transferencia a través de distintas plataformas utilizando estos dispositivos fácilmente de usarse. Con base en esto, se encontró que los sistemas para iPad y Android presentan grandes ventajas en términos de portabilidad y de la adquisición de datos electrónicos. Sin embargo, la compatibilidad de archivos y de la transferencia de datos a través de plataformas múltiples presenta un número considerable de inconvenientes. El siguiente estudio de caso se enfoca en el desarrollo de un protocolo para la recoloección de datos, implementado por el Proyecto de Investigación Arqueológica Valle de Zaña, Perú (PIAZ), que trasciende estas limitaciones. La más reciente incorporación de datos recopilados, utilizando tabletas, demuestra el potencial de esta herramienta a la investigación arqueológica y las dificultadas a las que se enfrentan los proyectos que dependen fuertemente de SIG. Los hallazgos significativos, en relación a las ventajas, así como a las limitaciones de la recolección, transferencia y almacenamiento de datos electrónicos (e-datos) son analizados aquí.

Type
Research Article
Information
Advances in Archaeological Practice , Volume 2 , Issue 2 , May 2014 , pp. 104 - 122
Copyright
Copyright © Society for American Archaeology 2014

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