Encoding Data

Question 1

What is Encoding Data? Give examples.

Answer 1

Encoding data means converting information or data into a code for large amounts of processing.

E.g. Male / Female = M/F
Date of birth = 05/10/98
Bank sort codes = 20-73-83

Question 2

What is Value Judgement? Give examples.

Answer 2

A value judgement is a matter of opinion rather than fact. The problem with a value judgement is that there isn’t a single correct value, the value depends on opinion.

E.g.
I start work at 7am - FACT

I start work early - Value Judgement

Question 3

Name 3 advantages of encoded data.

Answer 3

• they are often short and take less time to enter
• they take up less storage space
• they are easier to validate

Question 4

Name 3 disadvantages of encoded data.

Answer 4

• the precision of data may be coarsened. For example, light blue may have been coded under blue
• the user needs a list of valid codes and their meanings to use the system
• coding of value judgement will inevitably lead to coarsening of the data since they may be a wide range of opinions and only a limited number of codes available