What is “big data” and how should we use it? The role of large datasets, secondary data, and associated analysis techniques in outdoor recreation research

With researchers increasingly interested in big data research, this conceptual paper describes how large datasets, secondary data, and associated analysis techniques can be used to understand outdoor recreation. Some types of large, secondary datasets that have been increasingly used in outdoor recreation research include social media, mobile device data, and trip reports or online reviews. First, we give a brief overview of big data terms and outline the steps involved in conducting big data research. In doing so, we describe data sources and analysis techniques relevant for outdoor recreation, and review how they have been applied in previous published works. We then describe opportunities, limitations, and considerations of using big data. Finally, we outline several questions researchers may consider when designing, conducting, reporting, and reviewing outdoor recreation research using big data. Overall, big data approaches can expand our understanding of outdoor recreation and, by addressing key questions, may help researchers harness the strengths of big data while ensuring quality and integrity.