Facebook 1.3m August Novemberlapowskyprotocol Facebook’s blog post also announced the launch of a new research protocol that outlines how researchers can obtain and use the data. The protocol includes requirements for who will be given access to the data, what terms they must agree to follow in their research, and which countries are eligible. It also outlines the selection methods and criteria used by Facebook to select researchers for the study. Facebook hopes this protocol will help ensure that data is shared responsibly and securely while promoting research integrity. The blog post stressed that it would continue to invest in efforts to protect user privacy as it continues its work with researchers.
Facebook’s announcement follows years of advocacy by academics who have pushed the company to share more of its data for research purposes. These efforts have gained traction in recent years, with the company now sharing more significant amounts of information about political advertising and the spread of misinformation on its platform. While this is a step forward for researchers, many believe much more must be done to ensure data-driven transparency and accountability on Facebook’s platform. The new research protocol is a sign that the company is willing to take steps to support scholarship and study on its platform.
Facebook 1.3m August Novemberlapowskyprotocol social issue, electoral, and political data from August 3 through November 3, 2020, could help researchers better understand how people interact with content related to elections and how specific topics are discussed in the public sphere. This could provide insights into how particular groups or individuals discuss and engage with political issues, allowing researchers to evaluate better how campaigns are conducted and what types of messages may resonate with different audiences. Facebook’s research protocol is a positive step forward in helping researchers access this data responsibly and securely. It is also a sign that the company is taking steps to support research into its platform and help ensure user privacy.
By expanding access to its data and launching a research protocol, Facebook is showing a more significant commitment to collaboration with academics and transparency on its platform. This could be an essential step in helping researchers gain insight into the way people interact with content related to social, electoral, and political issues. It could also be a sign that the company is taking steps to open up its platform for research purposes and create a transparent environment for understanding how people engage with Facebook content. Facebook’s new protocol is encouraging, showing a more significant commitment to data sharing and collaboration with researchers.
