Raw Files
From ElateWiki
Raw (digital) files are important because they are a byproduct of the construction of e-learning. These are termed "raw" as a contrast to "processed," with the latter file types what learners and professionals (studying in an e-learning course or module or training) actually use.
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What are Raw Files?
Raw digital files refer to the digital imagery, audio clips, and video clips that are captured in-field and will be integrated into digital learning objects later.
Why Archive Raw Files?
Raw files are often the "least lossy" format of many digital file types. They are often high-res digital images with the closest color to real (although digital images are still very much a poor approximation of real). Uncompressed video files contain plenty of visual and audio information. Various raw files also contain metadata, and the various capture devices will likely capture more metadata as these devices evolve.
Building for Re-Use
Basically, raw files are archived for the informational value of the information captured. They are there to establish information provenance, in case there's any question about where information has come from. They are shared in an e-learning course build, so others on the team may access those files for uses throughout the project.
Naming Protocols and Record-keeping
Naming digital files with proper naming protocols is important. The basic rule here is to call an image what it is. The time stamp and other metadata about that image may already be available as an inherent part of the capture, including GPS-based data. Record-keeping means human-made notes about the digital contents and the situation of the capture and the informational value (potentially) of the image or video or audio. This may also include byline information for crediting. Record-keeping is an important part of the institutional memory for that project.