Question

Your task is to identify three or more ways that big data is being collected on a regular basis, including one data collection method for each of the following categories:

Data collection on the internet
Digital data collection from a source other than the internet
Analog (non-digital) data collection being performed in physical places

For each of these data collection practices: Describe how the data collection occurs. Analyze the data collection process by answering the following five questions in complete sentences and to the best of your ability:

What data is being collected?
Why is this data being collected?
What are the likely benefits of this data collection?
How might this data collection cause harm?
How likely is it that this data can be accessed by others?

You may use the internet or any other available resources to identify and analyze these data collection strategies.

Answer 1

Big data is collected through internet cookies, mobile app permissions, and field research in physical stores. The data is used for personalizing experiences and targeted marketing, but there are concerns about privacy and data breaches. The access by others ranges from high in the case of internet cookies to variable based on security measures for mobile apps and field research data.

Step-by-step explanation:

Data Collection on the Internet

One method of collecting big data on the internet is through cookies and tracking pixels. These tools collect data about user behavior, preferences, and demographics. The data is collected to personalize user experiences, target advertisements, and understand consumer behavior. The benefit of this data collection includes providing tailored content and improving online services. However, it can compromise privacy and may lead to data breaches. The likelihood of this data being accessed by others is relatively high, considering the number of data-sharing agreements between companies.

Digital Data Collection from a Source Other than the Internet

Mobile applications often collect big data through user permissions granted to access location, contacts, and other phone features. This data is collected for app functionality, personalized experiences, and marketing insights. The benefits include enhanced user experiences and better app services, but at the risk of privacy invasion and unwanted data sharing. The probability of this data being accessed by others depends on the app developer's security measures and data policies.

Analog (Non-digital) Data Collection in Physical Places

Field research involves observing and collecting data in the subject's natural environment. For instance, retail stores may collect shopper behavior data through surveys or by tracking the movement of customers using cameras. This data provides insights on consumer habits and preferences, helping to improve products and services. Benefits include enhanced shopping experiences and operational efficiency. Harm could arise from misuse of personal information or intrusive surveillance practices. The potential for others to access this data varies depending on the security protocols of the data-collecting entity.

Answer 2

Big data is collected on a regular basis through web tracking, mobile apps, and surveillance cameras. Web tracking collects data on users' browsing habits, mobile apps collect data such as location and contacts, and surveillance cameras capture video footage for various purposes.

Step-by-step explanation:

Data Collection on the Internet: One way big data is collected on the internet is through web tracking. Websites use cookies and tracking scripts to collect data on users' browsing habits, such as the pages they visit, the links they click, and the time they spend on each page. This data is collected to personalize the user's online experience, serve targeted advertisements, and analyze user behavior to improve website performance.

Digital Data Collection from a Source Other than the Internet: Another way big data is collected is through mobile apps. Many mobile apps collect user data, such as location, contacts, and device information. This data is often used for targeted advertising, app personalization, and improving the app's performance. For example, a fitness tracking app may collect data on users' exercise habits to provide personalized workout recommendations.

Analog (Non-Digital) Data Collection in Physical Places: Analog data collection can occur through surveillance cameras. Surveillance cameras are widely used in public places, stores, and even homes. They capture video footage that can be analyzed for various purposes, such as identifying criminal activities, monitoring traffic, or improving customer service. While surveillance cameras provide valuable data for security and analysis, they also raise concerns about privacy and potential misuse of the collected data.