How is a controlled vocabulary defined?

How is a controlled vocabulary defined?

• A. A random collection of terms without structure
• B. Terms and meanings used in structured data entry or processing
• C. A collection of synonyms in a thesaurus
• D. A simple list of keywords

Answer: (B)

A controlled vocabulary is defined as a systematic and organized set of terms and their meanings that are used consistently for structured data entry or processing. This definition emphasizes the importance of having an established and uniform set of terms which helps in avoiding ambiguity in data interpretation. By using a controlled vocabulary, organizations can ensure that everyone uses the same terms to refer to specific concepts, which facilitates better communication, data retrieval, and consistency across various datasets. The term is applied in various fields, such as information science, data management, and library systems, to enhance data management processes. In structured data entry, for example, utilizing a controlled vocabulary can help to standardize the input, thereby improving the quality of data collected. In contrast, the other options describe different concepts that do not encapsulate the structured and purposeful nature of a controlled vocabulary. A random collection of terms lacks any organization, making it ineffective for data management. A collection of synonyms in a thesaurus is focused on language use but does not address the structured application of terms for data purposes. Lastly, a simple list of keywords may not provide the clarity and precision required in data entry or processing that a controlled vocabulary would.

A controlled vocabulary is defined as a systematic and organized set of terms and their meanings that are used consistently for structured data entry or processing. This definition emphasizes the importance of having an established and uniform set of terms which helps in avoiding ambiguity in data interpretation. By using a controlled vocabulary, organizations can ensure that everyone uses the same terms to refer to specific concepts, which facilitates better communication, data retrieval, and consistency across various datasets.

The term is applied in various fields, such as information science, data management, and library systems, to enhance data management processes. In structured data entry, for example, utilizing a controlled vocabulary can help to standardize the input, thereby improving the quality of data collected.

In contrast, the other options describe different concepts that do not encapsulate the structured and purposeful nature of a controlled vocabulary. A random collection of terms lacks any organization, making it ineffective for data management. A collection of synonyms in a thesaurus is focused on language use but does not address the structured application of terms for data purposes. Lastly, a simple list of keywords may not provide the clarity and precision required in data entry or processing that a controlled vocabulary would.