From downloading to upcycling – the clever idea behind this is to add existing user data to a new knowledge cycle by donating it to research. At the Data Donation Days 2024, UZH’s Data Donation Lab raised awareness among the general public, students, researchers and employees of Zurich’s universities about their right to their own data and drew attention to this still largely unknown topic.
Over a total of six days, researchers used selected projects to provide information on the social benefits of data donation. They explained to interested participants how they can download their personal user data from Meta, Google and co. And guided them through the process, both in a playful way with installations and a competition as well as in concrete terms. In addition to the good feeling of having made their own data accessible to a new knowledge cycle, all participants received a personal analysis of their own data. This gave them insights into the data that the platforms collect about them.
When asked about his experiences during the six days, Thomas Friemel summarized that the discussions with participants confirmed that many were not yet aware of their right to their own data. As a result, there was also little awareness of data donation for research purposes. Of course, concerns regarding the protection of privacy were frequently raised. However, when it was explained that the data is completely anonymized when it is donated, these concerns were quickly dispelled. Especially when compared to the platforms, where people are clearly identifiable via login names, email addresses and telephone numbers.
Four projects on the influence of social media and artificial intelligence on our political opinion-forming, mental health, daily media use and perception of science took part in the Data Donation Days. Participation in the projects is still possible at www.datadonation.ch .
Author: Sibille Etling, Project Organization and Communication Data Donation Days
The Data Donation Days are funded in the 1st Outreach-Call.