Training Researchers on Data Management: A Scalable, Cross-Disciplinary Approach

This article describes the curriculum, implementation, and results of the research data management training offered by the University of Minnesota (UMN) Libraries. The UMN Libraries have offered the workshop titled, “Creating a Data Management Plan for Your Grant Application,” to more than 300 researchers and faculty since late 2010. With University partnerships, this training satisfies the requirement for the continuing education component to maintain PI eligibility. Based on workshop feedback, the authors conclude that academic libraries can provide support to researchers with federal mandates to share their research data by providing timely, discussion-based training and resources on how to create a data management plan. The unanticipated benefits for library staff education and professional development on this topic are explored.